The University Dialogue focuses on setting goals for the coming year and longer-term activities. The basis for this process is the previous year's agreed strategic plans for schools and joint areas, the guidelines agreed during the University Review and the university board's guidelines.

Aalto's schools and joint services update their plans for the next four years. Steering groups evaluate schools' plans as part of the preparation process for the joint dialogue. PMT agrees on the future operational goals and resources, which will be documented in a joint target agreement, Our Plan. The university budget for the following year and the long term financial plan is approved by the university board in June.

In the University Dialogue, we also define strategic development projects that support the implementation of the strategy. They are managed according to the so-called gate model. See more information.