This Education Sector Planning Working Papers series draws from a vast accumulation of "field-based" experience of IIEP staff members and consultants working with a diverse range of countries. The intention is to have a set of practical and easy-to-use guidelines on different aspects of the strategic planning of education that could be applicable in various contexts. These working papers have been prepared primarily for senior policy/decision-makers, for staff of Ministries of Education and national and regional institutions involved in technical aspects of planning and for international agency staff supporting national policy and planning. Working Paper 1, Strategic Planning: Concept and rationale, is an introductory text aiming to clarify the concept. It offers a succinct look at the key characteristics of strategic planning of education; reviews its various steps, and gives indications on how to prepare plans. These steps are further detailed in subsequent Working Papers.