Most business owners in Maryland understand that strategic business planning is key to a company’s success. However, understanding its importance and actually executing a strategic business plan are two different things. When a business plan just sits on the shelf, it becomes nothing more than a static document. Strategic business plans often fail to create change in an organization because they do not contain clear directions. To be effective, a business plan should set the trajectory for a company by outlining specific goals and articulating clear vision statements. A solid plan for how to reach the specified goals and achieve the company’s vision should also be included in the strategic business plan. It is important for all of the executives to understand a strategic business plan so that they can work to achieve the goals that have been set. If the plan is too complex or vague, it could end up meaning different things to different people. At a company meeting, executives should make sure that they all understand the strategic business plan before finalizing it. After setting an operational plan for the first year, the operational plan can be divided into departmental or individual work plans and executed. Some owners may choose to enlist the help of a business law attorney while they are writing this type of a plan. An attorney may be able to ensure that all aspects of the plan comply with relevant federal, state and local laws. The plan may want to address the regulatory compliance matters that the company will face as well.