The document outlines the key steps in the planning process: 1) analyzing the internal and external environment to understand why planning is needed and identify opportunities, 2) setting clear and achievable long-term and short-term objectives, 3) developing planning premises by forecasting factors like market conditions, costs, and economic trends, 4) identifying and evaluating multiple alternatives to achieve objectives, 5) selecting the best alternative based on factors like costs and market conditions, 6) formulating supportive plans to implement the major plan, 7) implementing the plans by informing staff and stakeholders and gathering resources, and 8) reviewing and revising the plans based on their effectiveness. Planning provides benefits like focusing efforts on goals, minimizing uncertainties, and facilitating coordination within