1 Define the purpose and scope

The first step in conducting a comprehensive environmental scan is to define the purpose and scope of the scan. What are the main questions or objectives that you want to address? What are the key areas or domains that you want to cover? How deep or broad do you want to go? How will you use the results of the scan? These questions will help you clarify the focus and direction of your scan, as well as the resources and time required.

3 Analyze and interpret data

The third step is to analyze and interpret data to identify the key findings and implications of the scan. You can use different techniques and frameworks to analyze and interpret data, such as gap analysis, trend analysis, impact analysis, or force field analysis. These techniques and frameworks can help you compare and contrast data, identify patterns and relationships, assess risks and opportunities, and evaluate strengths and weaknesses.

You can also use various visualization tools and formats to present and communicate data, such as charts, graphs, tables, maps, or dashboards. These visualization tools and formats can help you highlight and summarize data, convey messages and insights, and engage and inform audiences.

4 Validate and update data

The fourth step is to validate and update data to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the scan. You can use different strategies and sources to validate and update data, such as triangulation, feedback, peer review, or monitoring. Triangulation is the use of multiple data sources or methods to cross-check and verify data. Feedback is the solicitation of opinions or suggestions from stakeholders or experts to improve data quality or interpretation. Peer review is the evaluation of data by other professionals or researchers to ensure validity and reliability. Monitoring is the regular tracking and reporting of data changes or developments to maintain currency and timeliness.

5 Apply and integrate data

The final step is to apply and integrate data to inform your decision making and planning. You can use different approaches and models to apply and integrate data, such as strategic planning, action planning, change management, or evaluation. Strategic planning is the process of defining your vision, mission, goals, and strategies based on the scan results. Action planning is the process of developing specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives and actions based on the scan results. Change management is the process of managing the transition and implementation of the scan results. Evaluation is the process of measuring and assessing the outcomes and impacts of the scan results.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?