making it happen- strategy in action
TRANSCRIPT
Workshop Objectives
• Overview of best practices in operationalizing strategic goals
• Identify common challenges in making and supporting strategic initiatives
• Sample tools for assessing and mobilizing effective work structures throughout an organization
• oversight, public accountability, individual and collective roles, how different than the role of the NFP board
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Available at: http://www.mapfornonprofits.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Considering-Options-Along-the-Strategic-Alignment-Spectrum-NEW-COLORS.pdf
Strategic Alignment Spectrum
Best practices in supporting strategy
Internal & external forces
Scenario-based
Shorter time frames
Work it!
Financial Positioning
Margin expectations
Revenue adequacy & stability
Loss leaders
Reinvestments vs. reserves
Data-driven decision-making
Program, financial and outcomes
Start wherever you are and evolve
Snapshots and trend analysis
Replicate in messaging
Leadership
• Clearly articulated strategy• It is okay to say I don’t know• Celebrate success!• Connection of work
Communication is key
• Building trust• Meaningful interaction• Foster self empowerment• Use of empathy and cultural
sensitivity
Similar to….
Use to…help articulate priorities and make decisions against them; identify areas of consensus or differences
Questions?
Jill Misra, MSW, LSWwww.impactsolutionscorp.com
312-502-8879
Sample Assessment Resources
McKinsey & CompanyOrganizational Capacity Assessment Tool
https://mckinseyonsociety.com/ocat/
Agility Assessmenthttps://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/agility-it-rhymes-with-stability
Additional Resources
• Open Minds—strategic informational trends, conferences, RFP database
• Stanford Social Innovation Review—scholarly examination of current trends & practice
• Pro bono or low bono consulting supports• Taproot• Executive Service Corps• Women on Call
Additional Resources
Adelphi University Center for Nonprofit Leadership, NY: http://nonprofit.adelphi.edu/resources/tools-for-executive-directors-and-boards-of-directors/
Board Tools: Composition Matrix, Board Development Assessment, Member Activity Report, Sample Board Manuals, Evaluation Forms, Fund Development Plans, Sample Policies, Consent Agenda
Organization Tools: ED Evaluation, Sample Forms & policies, Comprehensive organizational assessment
Additional Resources
BoardSource, www.boardsource.org• Membership, some resources available to non-members• Informational resources, professional development, board
assessment & consultation
Association of Consultants to Nonprofits, www.acnconsult.org
• Chicago-based membership group of NFP consultants• Programs for consultants and NFPs, RFP distribution
Forefront, www.myforefront.org• Membership, affinity groups, professional development• Mission Sustainability Initiative
Additional Resources
Facilitation & Process—Portland based consulting firm working primarily in the area of NFP strategy and planning, has published relevant resources
http://facilitationprocess.com
“Nonprofit Strategies for a Changing Environment: A Planning Toolkit” includes checklists and decision guides