Much of life is anticipation.  From my vantage point I can see many things being anticipated.  Where I am, this is the spring that isn't: We are fervently awaiting warmth.  Likewise, we await some kind of positive resolution in Libya after the hurried imposition of a no-fly zone.  The Japanese people are desparately awaiting the staunching of radioactivity from their crippled nuclear reactors.  Investors are awaiting first quarter earnings reports and more signs of economic growth. Note that the examples I give of anticipation are all macro:  the weather, a war, a catastrophe, the economy.  These are things that we have little or no control over. We cannot shape them.  We can only experience them.

Do people asking for funding have a plan? Why is that even a question?

Anyone interested in strategic planning and leadership needs to keep current with trends, experience, the "cutting edge" and "what's next."   You can imagine that as a former financial/business journalist and publisher I am voracious in my consumption of business information.  I consume - off and on - The Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, the business sections of my local newspapers, CNBC, Bloomberg, Market Place, all sorts of web sites, trade publications and more.

A elegant strategy is one that fits. That falls into place. That works with style and ease.