Strategic management involves formulating, implementing, and evaluating cross-functional decisions to achieve organizational objectives. It includes three main stages: strategy formulation by analyzing external opportunities/threats and internal strengths/weaknesses; strategy implementation through setting objectives, policies, and allocating resources; and strategy evaluation by assessing performance and initiating corrective actions. Strategic management provides benefits such as improved strategic decisions, increased commitment through participation, and better financial and non-financial performance. However, some firms avoid it due to lack of knowledge, poor structures, or overconfidence.