Page 7 - Augusta Fire Department Strategic Plan 2026-2029

The Planning Process

A Systems Thinking Approach

Environmental Scan
The first phase begins with a Future Environmental Scan.

The purpose of the Environmental Scan is to anticipate,

understand and meet or exceed the expectations of

internal and external customers. Through continuous
“environmental scanning”, trends and the ever-changing

needs of stakeholders are observed, gathered, and

analyzed to ensure that all customers are satisfied with

the programs and services received.

Considering this, the Augusta Fire Department’s Planning

Team initiated an Environmental Scan, which involved
conducting an in-depth review and discussion of its

constantly changing operating environment, both

internally and externally. The review highlighted emerging
trends and variables that could impact the Strategic

Plan’s trajectory and ultimate success.

This Strategic Plan is rooted in the Planning Team’s
collective expertise, blending analysis of federal, state,

and regional trends with a deep understanding of the

department's internal operations.

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