The Impact of Strategic Planning on the Challenges Facing Small and Micro Enterprises in Saudi Arabia: A Case Study in the Education Sector

This study aims to investigate the impact of strategic planning on the challenges faced by small and micro enterprises in the education sector in Saudi Arabia. The study seeks to understand the extent to which strategic planning can improve performance, increase productivity, and enhance the competitiveness of these enterprises. The research employed a descriptive-analytical approach, using questionnaires to collect data from a sample of 54 participants, including owners and managers of small and micro enterprises in the education sector. The questionnaires covered five main areas: challenges faced by these enterprises, the application of strategic planning, the use of technology in strategic planning, the impact of strategic planning on these enterprises, and the effect of government support on strategic planning. Additionally, the research included a section for collecting demographic data of the participants. The results of the study showed that strategic planning plays a pivotal role in addressing financial, marketing, and administrative challenges faced by small and micro enterprises. Furthermore, the findings indicated that the use of strategic planning techniques enhances the overall performance and productivity of these enterprises. The study identified the main challenges faced by small and micro enterprises in the education sector, which include difficulties in obtaining financing, bureaucracy, and marketing challenges. The results confirmed that strategic planning helps in setting future goals for the enterprise and developing the necessary policies and plans to achieve these goals, thereby maintaining superior performance compared to competitors. The study concluded that there is a strong positive impact of strategic planning on the performance of small and micro enterprises, as it helps improve financial and human resource management, enhance the ability to adapt to environmental changes, and increase competitiveness.