Recent changes in the NHS mean that commissioners and providers need to employ planning strategies to safeguard the effective deployment of resources, ensuring that staff are well managed and patient needs are met as efficiently as possible. This practical book provides an introduction to business planning for NHS managers at all levels. Opening with the question "what makes a successful organization?", the book moves on to discuss: what planning is and the steps involved in the process; implementing and evaluating plans; joint planning and collaboration with social services; managing stakeholders; and planning for change in the NHS context.