Creating an individual plan

To help with planning for the future:

each person in the business can use an individual plan; and
the strategic plan can be used to plan for the business

GROW stands for:



Goals

A list of the vision and specific achievable goals for an individual.



Reality

What is likely to be achievable taking into consideration resources and capability.

g

Options

Specific options that can be considered in achieving the realistic goals.



Way forward

A written pathway forward that includes resources, people, costs and time frames.

Here is a case study demonstrating the GROW process for a cross section of people in the dairy industry.

Case study: The Hallyburtons easing into retirement

Neville Hallyburton plans to work on his dairy farm as long as he remains fit and healthy, but it hasn’t stopped the family developing a succession plan for the business which includes regular father and son fishing trips.

Some things to consider in the planning process

Identify and communicate openly with interested parties to determine who wants to be involved, and to what level
Build capacity to manage and hopefully resolve disputes and manage change. This may require involvement from outside advisers (e.g. a meeting facilitator or consultant)
Make sure individuals have the opportunity to openly express their goals for the future, ideas or opinions
Create a healthy group culture which will enable a goal for the future of the business to be discussed and developed
Be clear about what is expected of the individuals who are involved in the planning process and the time frames
Remember the need to ensure that relationships are preserved as well as focusing on the business planning

The grains industry has published A Guide to Succession: Sustaining Families and Farms covering many of the above issues and capturing a wealth of practical experiences.