The operational plan helps the implementing team to identify what they want to achieve for the beneficiaries, and how they want to make it happen. It is based upon the programmatic objectives, the modality decision by management, the delivery mechanism selected (if known at this stage), the findings of the assessments and analyses in addition to the risk mitigation measures identified. The operational plan sets priorities and provides a roadmap to keep the team on track with the expected results; it defines the overall strategy, specific objectives, field structure of the operation, and helps to align the implementation team in achieving their goals.
The operational plan is the first step in setting up implementation, but keep in mind that it is just a plan and will not perfectly predict exactly how a project will be implemented; it is not a linear process. Unforeseen events and circumstances as well as updated analysis and information from the MEAL team will trigger adjustments in the implementation. Therefore, the operational plan should be reviewed and adjusted as needed.
The final operational plan should be shared with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that all are working with the most complete and final version.