In this stage, the planner first identifies appropriate techniques for achieving client objectives in light of the economic environment. In investment portfolio construction, for example, asset categories consistent with the client's objectives and constraints are identified during the analyzing and evaluating stage of the financial planning process. Second, the planner selects alternative investments within those categories, exercising appropriate due diligence. A similar selection process is used in identifying appropriate insurance products, forms of business operation, intrafamily transfers, tax strategies, retirement plans, and estate planning techniques.

The alternative solutions are evaluated further, and an integrated set of recommendations is developed to meet client requirements. Frequently, a schedule for implementing recommendations is developed and incorporated into the plan. The comprehensive plan is then presented to the client in writing. It is possible that, even at this stage of the process, client objectives may be subject to reordering or change.

In this step, it is critical to adequately address the qualitative data, or the answers to the "soft" questions. Regardless of what recommendations the quantitative data may indicate, if the client perceives that the answers to the soft questions have not been adequately addressed, the next step is likely to be an exercise in futility.