How do I create a one-page strategic plan for my business?

One-page strategic plan structure

A one-page strategic plan captures vision, priorities, metrics, and key initiatives succinctly. It’s meant to focus the team and guide decision-making without lengthy documents.

Core components to include:

  • Vision and mission: one-line aspirational purpose and whom you serve
  • 1–3 strategic priorities for the next 12 months
  • Key performance indicators (KPIs) tied to each priority
  • Top initiatives or projects with owners and deadlines
  • Current challenges and assumptions

How to build it:

  1. Start with the desired outcome: what will success look like in 12 months?
  2. Identify the few priorities that will move the needle toward that outcome.
  3. Define 1–3 KPIs per priority to measure progress.
  4. List 3–5 initiatives that will deliver each priority and assign owners.

Practical tips:

  • Keep language simple and actionable—avoid vague buzzwords.
  • Review the one-pager monthly in leadership meetings and update it as needed.
  • Use it as the basis for team goals and individual OKRs.

Benefits

A one-page plan reduces scope creep, promotes alignment across teams, and helps everyone quickly understand what matters today. It’s a living tool—update it as you learn and the market changes.