ASP Retreat I

Thank you so much for the fabulous Applied Strategic Planning sessions for the International College of Dentists. I have attached the final report with the Integrated Action Plans (IAP's) that were approved by the Board of Regents last fall in San Francisco. We have updated the IAP's for our Executive review held in January; I could send you those if you wish. Please let me know too if you would also like a scanned electronic copy of the report.

It is an exciting thing to see the wheels moving forward...with a firm direction no less.

Thank  you for all the work you have done to assist us in seeing the path to becoming a better organization. It is very much appreciated.

The NSC is such a big part of my life and things will never be the same. The world is opening up in such a beautiful environment and I am so grateful.

The Applied Strategic Planning experience was way beyond my expectations! A new vision for our practice's future ...that I helped create has had an incredible impact on me (and our entire team) personally and professionally. You gave us so many tools to carry back to the office to rectify problems, attain goals and for follow through. A big positive impact was to connect with other offices throughout the country ...this program attracts the best! There was never a moment during the retreats that I lost interest. I didn't want the last retreat to end! I hung on every single word that was said by Bob and Irene. You are both truly a blessing in my life! Thanks from the bottom of my heart.

I was impressed from the first moment you greeted us as we arrived after a day of travel ...I was impressed with your ability to translate your practical experience for the doctors and their teams ...One of the most significant benefits of thinking strategically is simplifying the process of determining goals, objectives and tactics. If a person learns nothing else from strategic thinking than how to ask the appropriate questions, they're on the right track. I believe the key selling point of Applied Strategic Planning is determining what is important and removing what isn't ...Bob, your passion for people and sharing wisdom is very inspiring ...meeting you and making a wonderful new friend has been a great experience for both of us.

I have to add my name to the list of those who sing your praise! The two-year experience of working with you on Applied Strategic Planning has been one of the truly great experiences of my time in dentistry. I believe that one of the highest titles that can be given to an individual is "teacher". You certainly have the right to that title, and we deeply appreciate what you have taught us!

Your Applied Strategic Planning Series helped us get ready for a big transition as my soon-to-be partner, Todd Gruen, and I prepared to take over the practice of my partner at the time, Mickey Bernstein. As you know, Mickey has had a very successful practice and is President-elect of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Todd and I were about to try to fill some big shoes. Your program helped us identify where we needed to focus and to clarify who WE wanted to be. The involvement of the whole team made this process so much more powerful. Thanks for all your help!

The overall Applied Strategic Planning Series was very positive and stimulating. Previous goal-setting seminars did not provide the tools to fully develop and implement a strategic plan. This process provided a new sense of excitement and clarity about where we are. It gave the team a sense of purpose about what we're trying to achieve. As a result of this process, our 21-year-old practice grew 25% in both gross and net the year after completing ASP.

Great news!!! The Applied Strategic Plan passed unanimously and without debate!!! Your address and support played a major part of our success. The delegates were truly impressed and excited after your speech. As I ventured through the Caucuses, I could feel the energy and excitement. The Delegates got it. Change can and will take place. The most rewarding part for me was the acknowledgment by the Delegates that a certain amount of trust was needed on their part in order to take the next steps.