The following stages, according to Koontz and O’Donnell, must be done in order to make planning effective:

1. Create a conducive environment for planning: A conducive environment must be created in order for operations to run smoothly, systematically, and according to schedule. It’s not a good idea to leave planning to chance. Top managers must be able to remove hurdles to planning by following a step-by-step procedure. This can be accomplished by setting clear objectives, preparing realistically, and providing necessary information and personnel help at various levels as needed.
2. Top management support: Because planning is widespread in nature, the concept of planning must begin at the highest levels of the organization. In other words, planning cannot begin unless and until top management endorses the concept and gives it constant attention. They must be willing to lend a hand anytime it is needed.
3. Equal Participation: Plans can only be accomplished if employees understand the concept and are willing to participate in all aspects of the process. As a result, it is vital to gain approval and commitment from all members of the organization.Encourage subordinates to participate in the planning process as a strategy to enhance commitment. When people are active in creating goals and selecting how to achieve them, planning comes to life.
4. Effective communication: Nothing in the organization can be accomplished unless and until a proper and well-developed communication network exists, thus goals, premises, and policies must be adequately communicated to employees. People must understand what they are expected to do, when, how, and where they are intended to accomplish it. The deadlines must also be informed ahead of time.
5. Integration: All strategies must be properly balanced and connected with the organization’s Mission Statement. They must be supportive of one another and not work in opposition to one another. Every effort should be made to ensure that as little time and resource is wasted as possible, so that the benefits of planning outweigh the costs.
6. Strict monitoring: Given the dynamic character of the environment, which includes both internal and external changes, plans must be reviewed and evaluated on a regular basis. Keeping the strategy as flexible as feasible is the greatest method to ensure proper monitoring.