| The complexity of intercollegiate athletics is constantly changing and evolving, making it difficult for athletic directors to manage their athletic departments in this high-stakes environment. Given that NCAA Division I FBS athletic departments are using strategic planning, if implemented effectively, it can be a powerful management tool (Earle, 2009; Kriemadis, 1997; Yow et al., 2000). This research study was undertaken with the goal of identifying the strategies used to implement strategic plans within NCAA Division I athletic departments and determining if differences exist between implementation factors and their perceived effectiveness when implementing strategic plans. A survey of 145 current athletic administrators revealed that athletic departments are utilizing strategic planning strategies and perceive a majority of them to be effective in strategic planning implementation. Additionally, no implementation factor was perceived to be more effective when implementing strategic plans within athletic departments. The results of this study will add to the literature of the strategic planning processes of athletic departments, and will help athletic administrators as they strive to achieve athletic department success through strategic planning. |
