How great leaders avoid disaster: the value of contingency planning

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss how leaders can benefit from better contingency planning.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is a viewpoint from an acclaimed organizational advisor and specialist in strategic planning.FindingsThe paper gives examples of good and bad contingency planning, and offers advice on how to put together a plan.Practical implicationsThis paper will help managers develop and implement better strategic contingency plans.Originality/valueThis paper will be very useful for practitioners wanting to learn about contingency planning, or considering whether to write a plan or not. It gives clear step‐by‐step instructions, and uses well‐known examples from practice.