The Need for Planning and Core Management Planning Principles

Abstract

Planning is the intellectual or ‘thinking’ component of the conservation management process. It is in itself a dynamic, iterative process. It is about recognising the things that are important and making decisions about what we want to achieve and what we must do. Planning is about sharing this process with others so that we can reach agreement; it is about communication; it is about learning. It is one of the most important conservation management activities. This chapter considers the need for planning. It begins with an outline of the functions of a management plan. The core of the chapter deals with the reasons for the failure of so many management plans. Planning should be driven by objectives and not issues. Good planning will ensure continuity of management, which is essential, provided, of course, that it is appropriate management. Conservation management will always be influenced by people management and vice versa. It is important that plans are not over-compartmentalised and that the relationship of each section with all the others is recognised. The main reasons for failure, often an inappropriate approach or attitude, are identified and discussed.