How to Create a One-Page Strategic Plan for Your Service Business

Many business owners hear "strategic plan" and imagine a dusty 50-page document that takes months to write and is never looked at again. It doesn't have to be that way. The most effective strategic plan is a living, breathing document that is simple enough to guide your daily decisions. A one-page plan is the perfect tool for this.

Inside our Big Picture workshop we guide teams through this structure. Adapt the checklist below to build your own high-impact one-pager.

1. Your 'Big Goal' (Vision)

This is the North Star for your business. It's a clear, compelling, and ambitious goal for the future (e.g., in 3-5 years). It shouldn't just be about revenue; it should be about the impact you want to make. A great 'Big Goal' inspires you and your team.

Example: "To become the most trusted provider of marketing services for trade-based businesses in South-East Queensland."

2. Your Strategic Purpose (Why)

Beyond making money, why does your business exist? This is your mission. It explains who you serve and the value you bring to them. This purpose will guide your decision-making and help you stay authentic to your brand.

Example: "We help tradies win more high-quality jobs by building them a professional online presence they can be proud of."

3. Key Issues / Opportunities

Be honest. What are the 3-5 biggest challenges or opportunities facing your business right now? These could be internal (e.g., inefficient processes) or external (e.g., a new competitor). Identifying these gives you focus.

Examples: "Relying too heavily on one big client," "Our quoting process is too slow," "An opportunity to expand into the Gold Coast market."

4. Annual Goals / Priorities

Based on your key issues, what are the 3-5 most important things you must achieve in the next 12 months? These should be specific and measurable goals that will move you closer to your 'Big Goal'.

Example (linked to issue above): "Secure 10 new clients to diversify our revenue base," "Implement new quoting software to reduce turnaround time by 50%."

5. Quarterly Actions / Rocks

Now, break down your annual goals into smaller, 90-day actions. What are the most important things to accomplish in the next quarter? This makes your big goals feel manageable and creates a sense of urgency.

Example (linked to goal above): "Launch a targeted Google Ads campaign for plumbers in Brisbane," "Research and select new quoting software by the end of March."

6. Establish a Weekly/Monthly Rhythm

A plan is only useful if you review it regularly. Set a cadence for reviewing progress with your leadership team-weekly to check rocks, monthly to review metrics and finances, and quarterly to reset the plan.

That's it. By putting these elements on a single page, you create a powerful visual reminder of where you're going and what you need to do to get there. Review it weekly to stay on track and adjust as you learn. This simple document will bring more focus, alignment, and momentum to your business than any 50-page plan ever could.