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Introduction. We plan to learn by opening up opportunities. We also learn from planning. As in any group work, we learn to expand our own thinking. With the need to articulate an idea or a reaction to an idea, we uncover our own and others' ignored or perhaps unconscious values, mental models and views.

Role of Shared Vision in Planning as Learning. Vital, involving planning that begins with the expression of personal visions and developing a shared vision teaches people what they can achieve. When individuals in an organization learn to work toward achieving a realistic future which is pictured clearly in their minds, their productivity, morale and growth are amplified.

The discipline of building a shared vision both develops personal mastery in systems thinking. Each member of an organization who learns to approach every challenge with a systems, goal-oriented view becomes more effective in both work and personal life.

Some Skills to be Learned in Planning. In planning, both alone and with coworkers, we hone our thinking and analysis skills. Planners uncover strengths and weaknesses in thinking, planning and acting. Planning is, in part, about making choices among the good options to find the most productive path—a variety of ways to realize our vision.

When planners approach decision-making by pushing themselves to look at different options rather than beginning by advocating one, they learn. They learn how to open their minds to a broader range of possibilities; how their coworkers think and approach a challenge; how strongly they and others hold an opinion; and,

how motivated they are toward group and individual success.

Each piece of the planning process has rich potential for learning. One example is assessing the business climate. While some have the skills to describe and analyze economic trends, others can collect information on such topics as product use and the organization's image.

The mission statement instructs all concerned with a company in what exactly this company proposes to do. All internal and external customers can understand better their role in achieving the goals which follow from the mission statement.

Being keenly aware of the organization's critical success factors teaches us to make effective choices in time use and activity selection.

Learning in Teams. Planning in a team is an integral part of team action; it provides learning about each other. We learn each others´ tacit beliefs, individual personality characteristics, and other team members' styles.

When we know and understand different style types as applied to team mates we learn: how to use and adapt our own style to be effective in various group interactions and tasks; effective ways to work with people of each style to utilize strengths and minimize differences; how to plan to make this present team highly productive by each member contributing most appropriately.

The entire planning process is rich with learning opportunities for everyone in your organization. Take advantage of planning time to involve and educate your internal and external customers.