Federal Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What type of planning focuses on setting specific, short-term goals?

1. Operational planning

2. Strategic planning

3. Tactical planning

4. Contingency planning

The correct answer is: Tactical planning

Tactical planning is a type of planning that focuses on setting specific, short-term goals and objectives that are aligned with the larger strategic goals of an organization. This planning is essential for translating the broad strategies into actionable steps that can be implemented in the immediate or near future. Tactical plans are more detailed and are often developed by lower management to guide daily operations and ensure that the organization meets its larger strategic goals. For example, in a nursing home setting, tactical planning might involve scheduling staff for the upcoming month or planning a specific initiative to improve resident care within a defined timeframe. On the other hand, operational planning typically deals with the day-to-day activities necessary to keep the organization running smoothly. It focuses on the short-term operations rather than setting specific goals. Strategic planning, by contrast, is more about long-term objectives and the overarching vision of the organization. Contingency planning is about preparing for unexpected events or emergencies, rather than setting specific, short-term goals. Therefore, tactical planning is the most accurate choice when emphasizing specific, short-term objectives.