Never underestimate or overestimate the value of planning.   When setting a up new program or system, I have seen several groups use the shotgun approach – throw out a lot of data points and use an iterative process to get the end result.  While this approach certainly can work, usually a lot of time and effort is spent needlessly trying to sync the vision of the implementers with the vision of the users.   Take some time and meet the key team in the program or system and discuss end goals and informational needs of the team.  Draft up mock output results and work out the system needs before implementing to streamline the process.  On the other hand, don't get so caught up in completing and defining the program or system that it gets caught in a committee loop and never gets off the ground.  As with most things in life, balance is the key in getting the most out of the planning process.