can you write an executive summary for this text? $-$ Every organization wants success. Establishing and maintaining the necessary tools to ensure success can vary from company to company, but setting the standard is the first step. Creating a focused vision allows all parties to work towards said goal while giving everyone the feeling of responsibility. King $(2023,$ Section $1)$ shared that organizations can predict potential adverse situations through strategic planning and implement preventive measures to mitigate their impact to reach long$-$term success. If something adverse occurs, this planning ensures swift recovery and minimizes disruption to operations. Business owners must also keep themselves informed about the latest trends impacting their product, which includes new technological advancements, as said by Amedeo $(2019).$ This results in a long$-$term competitive advantage, advancing customer interests and maintaining the upper hand over competitors. $$Rothaermel $(2024)$ shares that "a good strategy enables a firm to achieve superior performance and sustainable competitive advantage relative to its competitors in any competitive situation" $($p$.8).$ Rothaermel $(2024),$ also expressed that an effective strategy consists of analyzing the competitive challenge, a strategic policy to tackle the competitive challenge, and a cohesive set of actions to execute the organization's strategic policy.

Leadership is imperative in every facet of strategic planning, demanding technical expertise and decisive action. Leaders are responsible for making critical decisions to shape the organization's future, charting the course, allocating resources, communicating the strategy, and ensuring its execution. As Ungar $(2023)$ states, leaders are at the forefront of the strategic planning process, guiding the organization toward its goals. Working towards the ultimate success goal takes months or years; it is critical to establish a strategic plan based on the appropriate criteria to see efforts come to fruition. A qualified and informed team plays a vital role along with a plan. According to King $(2023),$ a well$-$crafted strategic plan enhances transparency, fosters trust, and reduces ambiguity within and among stakeholders, promoting greater collaboration across teams. Collaborating to gain insight into each department, rather than operating in isolation, enhances trust in the organization's overall direction. Leaders who support their team members and take accountability for their actions create an environment where subordinates feel secure and confident in their roles, even in the face of mistakes.

Evaluating the success of any organization can be a tedious process. Both external and internal analyses are needed. When analyzing the external environment of the American Cancer Society $($ACS$),$ we can see how this non$-$profit organization operates and how it continues to strive for a competitive advantage, whether it be for sponsorships, donations, or acknowledgment. ACS's mission is to "improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer" $($Rosen & Rosen, $2022).$ The American Cancer Society is crucial in cancer research, patient support, and public education. They significantly enhance fundraising efforts by leveraging a broad volunteer network and a formidable reputation in advancing research. The organization's national footprint and comprehensive strategy encompassing research, advocacy, services, and education distinguish it from smaller, localized non$-$profits. While others may attempt to emulate its model, the ACS's century$-$long establishment, brand trust, and extensive network are challenging to replicate. Structured in resource allocation, volunteer management, and campaign execution, the ACS ensures efficient leveraging for maximum impact in its mission.

Its advocacy efforts aim to influence public policy for improved cancer care and funding. While prioritizing all involved in cancer diagnoses, patient support services continue to be an organizational strength. ACS offers comprehensive support services to cancer patients and their families, including transportation, lodging, and emotional support. Rosen & Rosen $(2023)$ express that these services are integral to fulfilling ACS's mission of aiding cancer patients effectively.