Strategic thinking for organization is like lantern for a ship which struggle with waves and need a light in order to reach the sea shore. i think organizations are always be in touch with turbulence and changes in business environment which can not be survived without strategy.
According to Mintzberg Strategy is (1) Plan; (2) Pattern; (3) Position; (4) Perspective; (5) Ploy. This concept called Five Ps for Strategy. Maybe, should add one more "P" - Path. In fact, Strategy is a navigation map for the organization.
Why is strategic thinking and its availability in business organizations essential?
Because strategic thinking help you to focus on the long run how to achieve your end goal / objective despite the current Political, Economic, Social, Technological (PEST) dynamics / disruptions that might swing the organization direction unpredictably.
However, based on my personal observation (may not generalize to all), many organizations recognize the importance of strategic thinking but the way they conduct their business (due to all the tangible short term pressures / dynamics) are focusing more on short term goal / measurement / KPI which might disconnect / off-course from their initial strategic plan.
Han Ping Fung "Political, Economic, Social, Technological (PEST) dynamics / disruptions" may lead to changes in strategic planning. That's to say PEST changes can create environments that no longer foster the plan, long-term goals, or even existence of an organization. I wonder how others see this