Preliminary Results of Strategic Planning in Russian Regions

Abstract

The aim of the study is to determine the results of the strategic planning system's development in the last decade. The article analyzes the specialized legal framework in the field of strategic planning at the regional level; dynamics of document development; quantitative indicators and quality content of documents; and evaluates trends in the development of the regional strategic planning systems. Ensuring the relationship between forecasting, goal setting, planning, and programming is an essential condition of the effectiveness of the entire strategic planning system. The article focuses on strategic planning and interrelation of the regional strategic planning documents. The initial data for research are: normative legal acts in the sphere of strategic planning of the Russian regions, and open official websites of executive and legislative authorities. Data on strategies and government programs relate to the end of 2016. The authors make conclusions about the degree of normative and methodological support of the high-level planning process, actual diverse requirements for the content of strategic development programs, and the level of their development. Most of the principles of the strategic planning (Article 7 172-FZ) are not fully observed. This applies to the principle of unity and integrity which should be applied, in particular, to the methodology of organizing and functioning of the strategic planning system. Another significant problem on the regional level is non-observance of the balancing principle of strategic planning which supposes consistency and balance of strategic planning documents as regards priorities, goals, objectives, activities, indicators, financial and other resources, and timing. The results are of interest to government officials making decisions in the field of strategic planning and programming, researchers, and specialists dealing with the issues of regional development.