Framework: Future Back Planning
Best for: Leadership teams, founders, and strategy-focused roles aiming to build long-term vision while anchoring it to actionable steps.
When to use it: Use this framework when you want to set ambitious strategic goals but need a clear, structured approach to bring those goals into immediate, actionable focus. This is ideal for planning sessions where big-picture thinking needs to be broken down into tangible checkpoints over the next two years.
Purpose: Strategic planning can often feel overwhelming, especially when the end goal is several years out. The Future Back Planning framework helps teams build a vision by working backward from the desired future state to the present, setting critical checkpoints at 90 days, 6 months, 12 months, and 2 years. This approach ensures every step forward is purposeful, manageable, and aligned with long-term goals.
How to:
Start by defining your long-term vision. What are the big goals you want to achieve in the next two years? Write down your “north star” so it’s clear for everyone.
Work backward from that vision, using the four checkpoints (90 days, 6 months, 12 months, and 2 years) to establish specific goals and actions that progressively build towards the end goal.
At each checkpoint, ask the relevant guiding questions (see below) to align short-term actions with long-term impact. This helps ensure you’re consistently focused and can adapt as needed along the way.
Guiding questions:90 days:
Are we clear on our immediate goals and quick wins?
Is everyone aligned and on board with the vision?
What early indicators can we track to confirm we’re on the right path?
6 months:
How much progress have we made towards our goals?
Do we need to adjust our strategy based on new challenges or opportunities?
How is the team’s motivation and workload balance - do we need more support?
12 months:
Are we achieving the expected outcomes, or is there a need for recalibration?
Have we celebrated milestones to reinforce progress and keep momentum?
Are there skill gaps that we need to address to support future growth?
2 years:
What tangible impact have we made, and what’s the return on investment?
How has our vision evolved, and where do we want to go next?
Are our foundations strong enough to support the next phase of growth?
Top Tips: Use this framework in your quarterly and annual strategy sessions to recalibrate as you progress. The flexibility to check in and adapt will keep your team aligned and motivated.
