The stages involved in development of planning processes are numerous.Planning as it were could be viewed as an approach to problem solving. It provides a systematic way of viewing problems and developing short- and long-term solutions. It can also be viewed as a decision-making process used to help guide decisions concerning future needs.
Stage 1: Identify problems and needs
Stage 2: Develop goals and objectives
Stage 3: Develop alternative strategies
Stage 4: Select strategies and develop a detailed plan