The FCCLA planning process is the five-step chapter management tool that helps members select and carry out projects to fit their needs and concerns. FCCLA members use the planning process to sort out thoughts, analyze situations, and plan for specific goals.
The FCCLA planning process may be applied to individual, team, or total-chapter projects and allows for variety in members’ ability levels and learning styles. Once learned and internalized, it becomes a powerful tool for members to use in personal, family, career, and community settings throughout their lifetimes.
IDENTIFY CONCERNS
The circle represents a continuous flow of ideas and has no beginning or end. As a target, it symbolizes zeroing in on the one idea around which you would like to build a project.
- Brainstorm to generate ideals or state the activity or problem you want to address if already determined.
- Evaluate your list and narrow it down to a workable ideal or project that interest and concerns the majority or all of your members.
SET A GOAL
The arrow stands for deciding which direction you will take. It points toward the goal or end result.
FCCLA recommends using SMART Goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Results-orientated/Relevant, Time-bound)
- Get a clear mental picture of what you want to accomplish and write your ideals down as your goal.
- Make sure your goal is one that can be achieved and evaluated.
- Consider resources available to you.
FORM A PLAN
The square represents the coming together of ideas – the who, what, where, when and how of your plan.
- Decide what needs to be done to reach your goal.
- Figure out the who, what, when, where, how, cost, resources, and evaluation.
- List the abilities, skills, and knowledge required on your part.
- List other available resources, such as people, places, publications, and funds.
- Make a workable timetable to keep track of your progress.
- List possible barriers you might face and develop plans if necessary.
- Decide ways to recognize your accomplishments along the way.
ACT
The different squares in this symbol represent the activities to be carried out to meet your goal. It represents acting on the plan.
- Brainstorm to generate ideals or state the activity or problem you want to address if already determined.
- Evaluate your list and narrow it down to a workable ideal or project that interest and concerns the majority or all of your members.
FOLLOW UP
The broken squares suggest examing the project piece by piece. This symbol also represents a “window” through which to review and evaluate the plan.
- Determine if your goal was met.
- List ways you would improve your project or plan for future reference.
- Share and publicize your efforts with others, including the media if appropriate.
- Recognize members and thank people involved with your project.