4 Essential Ingredients in Strategic Planning
2. Keep the planning process strategic
In our model, a carefully selected planning committee (sometimes the board as a whole) provides leadership for the process. It is best to keep the planning process strategic in focus (this is another reason why using an outside facilitator is beneficial). This is also good training and reinforcement for the board to remain strategic. Once the board approves the framework of the plan, it is delegated to staff to put actionable legs to it.
3. Failing to execute makes it a wasted effort
By involving many in the planning process, you build accountability. As you implement the plan, you must have a staff leader accountable for the tracking and execution. You can involve staff and even board teams as appropriate.
Looking for Jeff? You'll find him either on the lake, laughing with good friends, or helping nonprofits develop to their full potential.
Jeff believes that successful fundraising is built on a bedrock of relevant, consistent messaging; sound practices; the nurturing of relationships; and impeccable stewardship. And that organizations that adhere to those standards serve as beacons to others that aspire to them. The Bedrocks & Beacons blog will provide strategic information to help nonprofits be both.
Jeff has more than 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and is a member of the NonProfit PRO Editorial Advisory Board.
