10 Ways to Use a Strategic Plan

Summary

In her presentation, Allison Bruin outlines ten practical ways for nonprofits to leverage strategic planning. She emphasizes that a strategic plan is not just a document but a vital tool for guiding decision-making, enhancing organizational direction, and fostering accountability among board members and staff. By engaging employees and aligning activities with long-term goals, organizations can inspire fundraising efforts, improve performance evaluations, and strengthen community engagement. A well-crafted strategic plan can help nonprofits navigate challenges, maintain focus, and effectively communicate their mission, ultimately driving success and sustainability.

Takeaways

• 📊 A strategic plan is essential for guiding nonprofit organizations in times of change or uncertainty.
• 🤔 Use the strategic plan to aid decision-making, helping organizations say 'no' to irrelevant opportunities and 'yes' to aligned initiatives.
• 👥 Board members can use the strategic plan to ensure accountability and oversight, promoting effective resource use.
• 💰 A clear strategic plan is vital for attracting donors and funding by illustrating the organization's long-term goals.
• 🙌 Engaging staff in the development of the strategic plan fosters a sense of commitment and excitement about their roles.
• 📈 The strategic plan helps leadership evaluate successes and challenges, providing a framework for accountability.
• 🗓️ Short-term planning should always align with the organization's long-term strategic objectives.
• 🧑‍💼 Job descriptions and hiring decisions should reflect the skills needed to achieve the organization's strategic goals.
• 📋 The performance of the executive director can be assessed using the strategic plan as a standard for evaluation.
• 🌍 Community engagement is enhanced when stakeholders understand the organization's mission and strategic initiatives.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of a strategic plan in a nonprofit organization?

The main purpose of a strategic plan is to serve as a tool that helps an organization succeed by providing direction and clarity on goals, priorities, and the necessary actions to achieve them.

Why might a strategic plan end up sitting on a shelf?

A strategic plan may be neglected because it can appear complicated, lacks engagement from staff, or does not resonate with the team's understanding of its importance and relevance.

How can a strategic plan aid in decision-making?

A strategic plan helps organizations make confident decisions by providing a framework that aligns today’s choices with tomorrow’s goals, ensuring that decisions are consistent with the organization's mission.

What role do board members play in relation to the strategic plan?

Board members use the strategic plan to govern effectively, ensuring that resources are utilized appropriately and that the organization is advancing its mandate, while also holding leadership accountable.

In what way can a strategic plan enhance fundraising efforts?

A strategic plan can illustrate to potential donors and funders where the organization is headed and what financial support is necessary, thereby inspiring contributions and demonstrating long-term sustainability.

How can engaging employees in the strategic planning process benefit an organization?

Engaging employees in the strategic planning process can boost morale and commitment, making them feel valued and connected to the organization's goals, which can improve retention and attract new talent.

What is the significance of evaluation in relation to a strategic plan?

Evaluation is crucial because it allows organizations to assess what is working, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate successes, ensuring that leadership remains accountable to their goals.

How does a strategic plan support short-term planning activities?

A strategic plan provides a long-term vision that guides teams in setting short-term activities, ensuring that immediate tasks align with overarching organizational goals.

Why is a strategic plan important for job descriptions?

A strategic plan helps organizations determine the skills and capacities needed for specific roles, ensuring that human resources are aligned with the organization's future direction.

What is the role of the strategic plan in the performance review of an executive director?

The strategic plan serves as a benchmark for evaluating the executive director’s performance, helping the board ensure that the director’s actions align with the organization's goals and accountability standards.

How can a strategic plan improve community engagement?

By sharing the strategic plan with the community, organizations can foster transparency and inspire support, helping community members understand the vision and the rationale behind specific programs.

What qualities should a good strategic plan possess?

A good strategic plan should be readable, inspiring, clear, and actionable, effectively communicating the organization's direction and engaging all stakeholders.