There are four types of Plans:

• Tactical Planning: short term
• Long-range Planning: 1-3 years
• Strategic Planning: 3-10 years
• Scenario Planning: uses plausibility of alternative realities

Why plan?

• Define the present & future.
• Paves clear path for achieving success.
• Clarifies goals and objectives.
• Keeps the organization focused.
• Moves the organization forward.
• Answers hard questions.
• Ensures sustainability.

Preparing for Planning:

The best way to develop planning skills is to start.  The following guidelines may help you to get the most out of your planning experience.

• The real benefit of planning is the process, not the plan.
• There is no perfect plan.
• Planning is a series of small moves.
• Usually things aren't as bad as you fear nor as good as you'd like.
• Start simple, but start!

Guides for the Plan:

• Know the relationship between the mission, goals, objectives and action steps.
• Get consensus, work in groups.
• Assign responsibilities.
• Stretch the limits or the organization.
• Now does the plan support the mission & goals?

Who plans?

The board and the staff both have responsibilities in the planning and implementation process.

Proper Planning is:

• Sound decision making.
• Focus & momentum.
• Leadership & staff commitment.

• High performing organizations.
• Satisfied constituents & stakeholders
• Sustainable success.

The Planning Model:

Analysis: Comprehensive assessment of internal & external factors that could have impact.
Vision: Defines the future, ideal (unachievable) state!
Mission: Answers, "Why do we exist?" "What is our purpose?"
Goals: Board areas of activity.
Objectives: Measurable, quantifiable and time phased.
Action Steps: Day to day activities.

The Board's Responsibility:

One of the primary responsibilities of the board is planning.  Plans must be in place to effectively lead the organization.  Therefore the board must:

• Participate annually in the planning process.
• Participate in the identification of resources. 
• Participate in supporting the vision and mission.
• Participate making sure bench marks are made.
• Participate to assure that the organization is on a path of improvement.

The Staff's Responsibility:

• Implement and carry out the mission and vision.
• Participate annually in the planning process.
• Participate in the identification of resources. 
• Responsible for implementation of the plan.

Need a Consultant?

You may want to consider a consultant if:

• You have not done planning before.
• Previous plans were not successful.
• A range of concerns about planning.
• There is no one who feels they have sufficient facilitation skills.
• No one is committed to facilitating the planning process.
• Leaders want full participation from all participants.
• Leaders want an objective voice.

Things to remember:

• HELP IS AVAILABLE

• We offer a wide range of strategic planning sessions, board retreats and one on one consultation to fit your needs. 

• We offer consultation services as follows:

  • Consultation @ $25.00 per hour.

  • Fees for workshops & retreats  vary based on need.