The strategic planning process includes the input stage, which includes gathering relevant facts about the external environment (usually using a PESTLE), the competitive environment and industry (usually using Porter's Five Forces and a Competitive Matrix or Strategic Map), and the internal environment i.e. the organization (KPIs and KSFs work well). Next, tools are applied to organize the information. One popular tool is a SWOT analysis, which includes relevant internal and external facts. After gaining as much knowledge as possible and analyzing the information, the next step is to align or match the information to create the best possible plan to position the organization for future success. Discuss the following in your initial post: What do you think is the most difficult part of the strategic planning process? What makes this part of the process the most difficult