Business Degree Certification Practice Test

What type of planning is typically performed by middle managers with a one-year time frame?

1. Strategic planning

2. Tactical planning

3. Operational planning

4. Contingency planning

The correct answer is: Tactical planning

Tactical planning is a crucial process carried out by middle managers within organizations, focusing on the implementation of strategies as laid out by upper management. This type of planning is generally concerned with the allocation of resources and the setting of specific objectives that typically span a one-year time frame. Middle managers translate broader organizational goals into more precise, actionable plans that their teams can execute. These plans include the development of projects, specific initiatives, and departmental objectives, ensuring that the organization's strategic goals are met effectively. Tactical planning emphasizes short-term actions and is often more detailed than strategic planning, which casts a wider net over a longer time horizon. Strategic planning, in contrast, encompasses a longer timeframe and is usually the responsibility of top-level management, focusing on high-level goals and the vision of the organization. Operational planning deals with the day-to-day functions of the organization, typically involving short-term, highly detailed planning that may span days, weeks, or months. Contingency planning involves preparing for unforeseen events or emergencies and also tends to be more extensive in its planning to address various potential scenarios. Thus, tactical planning stands out as the correct choice for the type of planning typically performed by middle managers within a one-year time horizon.