Phase II Steps:

• Initiative porfolio analysis and prioritization
• Initiative estimation and measurable outcomes
• Budget review
• Commitment
• Communication plan

Step One: Initiative portfolio analysis and prioritization

During this process the cabinet initiatives collected and defined in Phase 1 were reviewed, prioritized and finalized.   What resulted was an initiative portfolio with two distinct priorities. 

The initiative portfolio analysis was originally completed in September 2003 with alignment being made to the Governor’s six priority areas: Education, Economy, Health Care, Better Government, Environment and Hometown Security.   A collaborative process was undertaken through the Policy Office to determine initiatives that met targeted objectives for these six areas.  The initiatives were analyzed for timeliness, impact and benefit to Michigan’s citizens. 

Then, in early 2004, the State of the State address (using the input gathered during the analysis process) defined a seven-point plan for improving Michigan’s economy.   The “seven roads to a strong economy” focused the administration’s emphasis within those original six priority areas to an even finer point. 

Certain initiatives were highlighted within economy, education, healthcare and the environment.  Alignment to the original six issue areas and the more detailed focus of the “seven roads” are reflected within this plan.

Step Two: Initiative estimation and measurable outcomes

This step involved the development of initiative metrics and expected outcomes. Once the initiative list was finalized, the departments wer asked to provide measurable outcomes and specific milestones for each cabinet initiative. The Policy Office and each department worked to refine the definition of key milestones and measurements for each initiative.

Step Three: Budget review

Each Cabinet department has been responsible for ensuring adequate budgets exist for each initiative.  They have allocated resources accordingly and work with the State Budget Office to ensure critical initiatives are included in the Governor’s budget request.

Step Four: Commitment

The Governor, all Cabinet Members and the Policy Staff have committed to achieving the objectives of the Cabinet Action Plan.

Step Five: Communication plan

External messages will follow Cabinet Action Plan milestones and requests as appropriate. In addition, a meeting is being scheduled internally to cascade the Cabinet Action Plan to the next level of Department managers responsible for the execution of the plan.