Final answer:
The mission statement serves as the basis for the strategic planning process because it outlines the fundamental purpose and direction of an organization. In symbolic interactionism studies within sociology, participant observation is the research method most likely to be used.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basis for a strategic planning process is often considered to be the mission statement. This component provides the foundation and direction for the organization and informs the rest of the strategic planning elements, including market analysis, SWOT analysis, and how the organization's culture and employees (potentially outlined in an employee handbook) will drive towards achieving its mission. Among the options given, the correct answer would be b. Mission statement.
To address the second, unrelated question related to research techniques in sociology, a symbolic interactionist would most likely use participant observation. This research method allows the symbolic interactionist to immerse themselves in the social environment and understand the complex symbols and meanings that individuals give to their actions and interactions from an insider perspective.