Implementing Connected Planning from Coursera

From this course, you’ll understand how to make Connected Planning a reality in an organization. Organizations need a vision supported by a focused effort to move from traditional planning and static business modeling to a Connected Planning approach--where data, people, and plans are linked throughout the organization.

Creating a digital ecosystem using a Connected Planning technology platform is a big part of the process, but it’s not the only thing needed. In this course, we’ll explore the role of corporate culture and sponsorship, process redesign, master data management, and change management to successfully implement Connected Planning.

You’ll be challenged to examine your own organization’s readiness to undertake the Connected Planning journey. If you’re not ready yet, you’ll identify areas where you need to focus your efforts. If you are ready, you’ll have the framework you need to get started on the path to make Connected Planning a reality in your organization.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

• Identify challenges to a Connected Planning implementation stemming from issues with people, data, and planning processes

• Articulate the benefits of Connected Planning over traditional planning and static business modeling

• Explain why corporate culture, data management, and change management are critical to successful Connected Planning execution

• Drive or constructively participate in the implementation of Connected Planning in your organization

This course is presented by Anaplan, provider of a leading technology platform that is purpose-built for Connected Planning.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Implementing Connected Planning

Successfully implementing a Connected Planning approach encompasses a lot more than just replacing legacy systems and spreadsheets with a Connected Planning technology platform. In this short lesson, we'll introduce you to the course and to some of the other critical factors that determine success as an organization begins, and continues, its Connected Planning journey.

The Path Forward

Implementing Connected Planning is a significant, transformative change for an organization. But organizations rarely get to successful Connected Planning without encountering some challenges along the way. In this week's lessons, we'll explore some common issues related to each of the three pillars of Connected Planning - People, Data, and Plans - that arise when moving from traditional planning to Connected Planning.

Addressing People Challenges

A successful implementation of Connected Planning requires many things from many people, and not just from individual players in the implementation project team. In this week's lessons, we will explore different ways in which organizational culture, sponsorship, and advocacy can enable Connected Planning.

Addressing Data Challenges

Data issues pose significant challenges for a Connected Planning implementation. In this week's lesson, we explore approaches that can be used to facilitate the clean-up, governance, storage, and transfer of data for Connected Planning purposes. We'll also touch on the necessary components of the broader digital ecosystem necessary for successful Connected Planning.

Addressing Plans Challenges

The third pillar of Connected Planning is the plans themselves. Plans are not once-a-year exercises; they are dynamic decision-making tools that help an organization to adapt and adjust course when priorities or conditions change. In this week's lessons, we explore the opportunity to re-engineer planning processes so that they work in a way that leverages the power of Connected Planning - revamping data hand-offs, shifting decision points, or expanding data and drivers, including the use of predictive analytics and artificial intelligence to increase the impact of the plans.

Ensuring Lasting Change - Addressing People Challenges, Part 2

In this week's lessons, we circle back to people issues and consider how change management and deployment planning, including communication and training, must be competently addressed in order to have a successful Connected Planning implementation.

Connected Planning and You Project

Implementing a Connected Planning approach within an organization is about much more than just adopting a Connected Planning technology platform. The final requirements for this course are to complete and submit a project and to complete a peer review for two other learners' projects. In this project, you will assess your organization's readiness to address and overcome challenges that often impede Connected Planning implementation. If you do not have experience working in an organization, you will need to interview someone about their organization to complete the project.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Shows how organizations can transform their traditional planning and modeling into a connected planning approach

Taught by seasoned instructors from Anaplan, a leading Connected Planning technology platform provider

Stresses the significance of corporate culture, data management, and change management for successful implementation

Provides a practical framework and guidance for organizations to implement Connected Planning

Addresses common challenges related to people, data, and plans in Connected Planning implementation

Assesses organizational readiness for Connected Planning implementation and provides insights for addressing hurdles

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Implementing Connected Planning with these activities:

Create a Connected Planning Resource Library

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Centralize your learning materials to enhance accessibility and facilitate ongoing reference.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Gather relevant articles, white papers, case studies, and videos on Connected Planning.
Organize the materials into logical categories or folders.
Store the resources in a central location, such as a shared drive or cloud storage.

Review Data Analysis Techniques

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Strengthen your data analysis skills to effectively leverage data in Connected Planning.

Browse courses on Data Analysis

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Review concepts such as data cleaning, data visualization, and statistical analysis.
Practice analyzing data sets using tools like Excel, SQL, or Python.

Attend Connected Planning Industry Webinars

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Connect with experts and practitioners to gain insights and perspectives on Connected Planning.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Identify upcoming webinars on Connected Planning topics.
Register for the webinars and attend them virtually.
Engage in Q&A sessions and interact with the speakers.

Nine other activities

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Review change management skills

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Understand and practice change management skills to support the adoption of Connected Planning in your organization.

Browse courses on Change Management

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Read articles and whitepapers on change management best practices.
Attend a workshop on change management.
Identify key stakeholders and develop a communication plan.
Create a change management plan with timelines, resources, and accountability.
Monitor and evaluate the impact of change management efforts

Explore Connected Planning Software Platforms

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Gain hands-on experience with Connected Planning technologies to better understand their capabilities and limitations.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Identify leading Connected Planning software platforms and their features.
Sign up for free trials or demo accounts.
Explore the user interface and functionality of each platform.
Create sample plans and scenarios to test the platform's capabilities.

Follow a tutorial on Connected Planning

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Enhance your understanding of Connected Planning with hands-on practice through guided tutorials.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Find a tutorial on Connected Planning.
Follow the tutorial step-by-step.
Apply what you learn to your own work.

Analyze Connected Planning Case Studies

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Reinforce understanding of Connected Planning concepts by examining real-world examples and identifying key insights.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Gather a collection of Connected Planning case studies from industry sources.
Review each case study and identify the key challenges, solutions, and outcomes related to Connected Planning implementation.
Compare and contrast different approaches to Connected Planning across the case studies.
Prepare a summary of your findings, highlighting the best practices and lessons learned.

Practice using Anaplan for Connected Planning

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Build proficiency in using Anaplan, a leading technology platform for Connected Planning.

Browse courses on Anaplan

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Create an account on Anaplan.
Complete the Anaplan Academy tutorials.
Build a simple planning model in Anaplan.
Collaborate with others on a shared planning model.
Attend an Anaplan workshop or training session.

Discuss Connected Planning Challenges with Peers

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Engage with fellow learners to share experiences, discuss challenges, and explore different perspectives on Connected Planning.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Join online forums or discussion groups related to Connected Planning.
Initiate or participate in discussions on specific topics or challenges.
Exchange ideas and seek feedback from other learners.

Develop a Connected Planning case study

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Gain hands-on experience in implementing Connected Planning by developing a case study.

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Identify a business problem that can be solved with Connected Planning.
Research best practices and case studies of successful Connected Planning implementations.
Develop a plan for implementing Connected Planning in your case study.
Implement Connected Planning and track your results.
Write a case study report that documents your experience and results.

Develop a Connected Planning Implementation Plan

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Apply course learnings to develop a practical plan for implementing Connected Planning within your own organization.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Assess your organization's current planning processes and identify areas for improvement.
Research best practices and industry standards for Connected Planning implementation.
Develop a detailed plan outlining the steps, timelines, and stakeholders involved in the implementation process.
Identify potential challenges and develop strategies to mitigate them.
Present your plan to key stakeholders and gather feedback.

Develop a Connected Planning Knowledge Base Article

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Contribute your knowledge and understanding of Connected Planning by creating a comprehensive reference article.

Browse courses on Connected Planning

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Identify a specific aspect or challenge related to Connected Planning.
Research and gather relevant information from credible sources.
Organize the information into a logical structure.
Write a clear and concise article, providing examples and practical tips.
Publish the article on a relevant platform or website.

Career center

Learners who complete Implementing Connected Planning will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use their skills in mathematics, statistics, and computer science to solve complex business problems. They develop and implement data-driven solutions to help businesses improve their operations. Data Scientists may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by developing predictive models and other data-driven tools. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Data Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Technical Architect

Technical Architects design and implement the technical infrastructure for organizations. They work with business leaders to understand their needs and develop a technical plan that will support the organization's goals. Technical Architects may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by designing and developing the technical infrastructure that will support this new system. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Technical Architect.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Architect

Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts design, develop, and implement computer systems. They work with users to understand their needs and develop systems that meet those needs. Systems Analysts may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by designing and developing the systems that will support this new system. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Systems Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Enterprise Architect

Enterprise Architects design and implement the technology infrastructure for organizations. They work with business leaders to understand their needs and develop a technology plan that will support the organization's goals. Enterprise Architects may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by designing the technology infrastructure that will support this new system. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an Enterprise Architect.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts use their skills in finance and accounting to analyze financial data and make recommendations to businesses. They may work in a variety of industries, including banking, investment management, and corporate finance. Financial Analysts may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by providing them with the financial data they need to make informed decisions. Taking this course may help you succeed as a Financial Analyst by providing you with a deeper understanding of the challenges associated with data management in a Connected Planning environment.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to help businesses make better decisions. They use their skills in statistics and data mining to identify trends and patterns in data. Data Analysts may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by providing them with the data they need to make informed decisions. Taking this course may help you succeed as a Data Analyst by providing you with a deeper understanding of the challenges associated with data management in a Connected Planning environment.

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Technology Manager

Technology Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the activities of an organization's IT department. They are responsible for ensuring that the IT department meets the needs of the business. Technology Managers may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by providing the leadership and support needed to implement this new system. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Technology Manager.

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Project Manager

Project Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing projects. They work with teams of people to achieve the project's goals. Project Managers may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by leading the project team and ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Project Manager.

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Operations Manager

Operations Managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the operations of an organization. They work with employees to ensure that the organization's goals are met. Operations Managers may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by providing the leadership and support needed to implement this new system. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an Operations Manager.

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IT Manager

IT Managers plan, organize, and direct the activities of an organization's IT department. They are responsible for ensuring that the IT department meets the needs of the business. IT Managers may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by providing the leadership and support needed to implement this new system. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an IT Manager.

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Strategic Planning Manager

Strategic Planning Managers are responsible for developing and implementing the strategic plans of an organization. They work with senior management to identify the organization's goals and develop a plan to achieve those goals. Strategic Planning Managers may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by developing the strategic plan that will guide the implementation process. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Strategic Planning Manager.

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Management Consultant

Management Consultants help organizations improve their performance by providing advice and support on a variety of management issues. They work with clients to identify problems, develop solutions, and implement those solutions. Management Consultants may play a key role in helping organizations implement Connected Planning by providing them with the guidance and support they need to implement this new system successfully. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Management Consultant.

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Change Management Consultant

Change Management Consultants help organizations implement and manage change successfully. They work with clients to assess their needs, develop a change management plan, and implement the plan. Implementing Connected Planning is a major change for any organization, so Change Management Consultants may play a key role in helping organizations through this process. Taking this course may be useful in developing the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Change Management Consultant.

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Business Systems Analyst

Business Systems Analysts assist in the design, implementation, and maintenance of information systems. They assess an organization's operations and recommend solutions to address issues or improve efficiency. Someone in this role may propose implementing Connected Planning in order to help the company run more efficiently. Taking this course may help you succeed in a Business Systems Analyst role by providing you with a deeper understanding of the challenges associated with implementing this type of system.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts can work in almost any industry. They organize information from different departments within a company and interpret that information in order to help businesses make better decisions about how to allocate resources. For example, they may recommend that a company alter its Connected Planning process to better fit user needs and increase productivity. Taking this course, Implementing Connected Planning, may be useful in helping you succeed as a Business Analyst.

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