What is a characteristic of strategic (long-range) planning?

Strategic (long-range) planning is characterized by a concentration of decision-making in the office of upper management. This is because strategic planning involves defining the long-term direction of the organization, which requires a significant understanding of complex market dynamics, competitive positioning, and resource allocation. Upper management tends to have the comprehensive insight necessary to assess these factors and make informed decisions that will steer the entire organization towards its goals.

While involving other levels in the planning process can be beneficial for garnering diverse perspectives and insights, the strategic plan ultimately reflects the vision and priorities set by senior leadership. Their role ensures that the strategic initiatives align with the overall mission and values of the organization, and that the necessary resources are allocated effectively.

The other options do not accurately describe essential characteristics of strategic planning. For instance, relying solely on feedback from employees could lead to a lack of coherence in strategy, as it may miss the broader organizational goals. A flexible and adaptive process, while ideally a feature of effective strategic planning, is not the defining characteristic; it is more about setting a clear long-term vision. Encouraging risk-taking at all levels is also essential but is not a primary focus of strategic planning, which prioritizes alignment and resource management over risk-taking behavior.