Strategic Planning within Ministries in Iceland: Lessons and Development

Abstract

Following the 2008 financial crisis, an extensive examination of Icelandic public administration, its policies, procedures, and practices was undertaken. This era spawned various programs, including an assessment of strategic plans issued by the Government Offices (ministries in Iceland). The purpose was to identify strengths and weaknesses within the strategic planning process, leading to the development of a strategic planning manual and efforts to enhance collaboration between ministries through the establishment of a policy council. More than a decade has passed since the comprehensive study of 11 strategies was published in the Icelandic Review of Politics and Administration. This article aims to take stock of progress within the Government Offices by reviewing 11 updated versions of the 2012 strategies, applying the same analytical framework used in 2012. Additionally, 22 new strategies and plans are analyzed for the first time, with the results compared to the updated versions of the original 11 strategies. The analysis highlights that the administration excels in the formulation stage, encompassing preparation, analysis, and goal setting. Moreover, there is an augmented presence of action plans across more strategies, and ministries seem more focused on ensuring compatibility and coordination among them. However, a persistent weakness is observed in the limited connection between actions and the allocation of funds, as well as evaluations of strategies.