Planning

Our organization plans continually, how is strategic planning different?

Ongoing planning involves analyzing the steps needed to achieve a specific objective such as creation of a new program, developing a grant proposal, installing a computer system, etc. A strategic plan is a long term design for the major directions that the organization will take to achieve its vision.

How is a strategic plan created?

The planning process is an opportunity for the organization to evaluate its strengths and weaknesses, its opportunities and its challenges. It is an analysis of where the organization stands in relation to the environment in which it operates, where it would like to stand in the future, and what it needs to achieve that vision.

Who would be involved in the planning process?

The strength of every organization derives from the commitment of the many stakeholders who value its mission. Their different point of view should be considered as much as is feasible. Principally of course, the process will involve the Board and the Executive Director. Input should also be obtained from other stakeholder including funders, clients, collaborating organizations, key staff, supporters, etc.

What will the consultant do?

The role of the consultant is to structure, guide and facilitate a process that will enable the organization to reach consensus on a realistic strategy for the future.

Link to Planning Accomplishments

Back to main FAQ