The literature on strategic planning, and the capabilities of Massachusetts system of public postsecondary education were assessed, as part of a 1981 leadership seminar. Teams from all public postsecondary education institutions in the state reviewed the basic concepts of strategic planning; critically analyzed the environment external to their institutions; observed a method to evaluate certificate and degree programs based on the criteria of quality, centrality, and viability; and listened to a presentation on various aspects of integration related to strategic planning. Materials and articles distributed to seminar participants contained detailed information about a broad range of demographic, social, political, and economic forces, trends, and their effects and impacts. Projects started by national organizations and the results of implementation in two- and four-year colleges and universities were also examined. Tools for external environment assessment were needs assessment, trend analysis, environment scanning, and market analysis. Data gathering and analysis, which are designed to reveal the options for an institution, were addressed. After review of resources and examples, tools, and options, campus teams participated in a SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunity, threat) analysis: an exercise to assist institutions to capitalize on strengths, minimize weaknesses, take advantage of opportunities, and eliminate or reduce threats. Lists of these concerns along with demographic, social, political, or economic factors, are included. It is recommended that there is a need for: institutions to be versed in the strategic planning literature, guidelines for data collection and analysis, and additional workshops. Appendices include a seminar program, a bibliography, and an evaluation format for diagnosing stages of institutional development. (SW)