Advanced Strategic Planning Frameworks for Managing Business Uncertainty in VUCA Environments

• Author(s): Rosebenedicta Odogwu ; Jeffrey Chidera Ogeawuchi ; Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi ; Oluwademilade Aderemi Agboola ; Samuel Owoade
• Paper ID: 1708770
• Page: 457-470
• Published Date: 30-11-2021
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 5 Issue 5 November-2021

Abstract

In today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) business landscape, conventional strategic planning models are increasingly inadequate. The rapid pace of technological change, geopolitical shifts, climate crises, pandemics, and global economic instability have created unprecedented challenges that demand new approaches to strategic thinking and execution. This paper proposes advanced strategic planning frameworks specifically tailored for managing uncertainty and complexity in VUCA environments. Grounded in interdisciplinary theories such as Complexity Theory, Dynamic Capabilities, and Systems Thinking, the study synthesizes existing literature and real-world case insights to develop a comprehensive and adaptive strategic planning approach. The proposed frameworks are structured around key components including environmental scanning, adaptive foresight, real-time feedback mechanisms, and scenario-based decision-making, all of which are essential for enhancing organizational agility and resilience. Drawing on both conceptual and applied research, the paper identifies critical limitations of traditional linear planning models, particularly their inability to accommodate rapid change and systemic interdependencies. In contrast, the advanced frameworks emphasize flexibility, continuous learning, and cross-functional integration. Real-world applications from sectors such as healthcare, technology, and manufacturing illustrate how adaptive strategic planning enables businesses to anticipate disruptions, respond dynamically, and seize emerging opportunities. The discussion further explores the practical and theoretical implications of these frameworks for strategic leaders, policymakers, and organizational designers. By bridging academic theory with strategic practice, this study contributes a timely and practical toolset for organizations seeking to thrive amidst constant change. Ultimately, the paper underscores that in a VUCA world, success no longer hinges on rigid plans but on an organization's ability to sense, adapt, and act with agility and confidence. The proposed strategic planning frameworks offer a forward-looking roadmap for embedding resilience, responsiveness, and innovation into the core of organizational strategy.

Keywords

VUCA Environments, Adaptive Strategic Planning, Organizational Agility, Complexity Theory, Scenario-Based Decision Making, Dynamic Capabilities

Citations

IRE Journals:
Rosebenedicta Odogwu , Jeffrey Chidera Ogeawuchi , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Oluwademilade Aderemi Agboola , Samuel Owoade "Advanced Strategic Planning Frameworks for Managing Business Uncertainty in VUCA Environments" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 5 Issue 5 2021 Page 457-470

IEEE:
Rosebenedicta Odogwu , Jeffrey Chidera Ogeawuchi , Abraham Ayodeji Abayomi , Oluwademilade Aderemi Agboola , Samuel Owoade "Advanced Strategic Planning Frameworks for Managing Business Uncertainty in VUCA Environments" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 5(5)