How to Approach the Initial Stages of Strategic Planning for Organizations
A Detailed Guide
Strategic planning is a disciplined effort that helps an organization define its strategy, set priorities, and allocate resources effectively.
Before launching into Detailed Steps to Develop a Strategic Plan, it’s critical for an organization to understand the framework of initial stages. Here’s how to structure these early efforts
1. Initial Team Meeting
Begin with a comprehensive team meeting to establish the strategic planning’s purpose and process.
This meeting should clarify the roles and expectations for each team member, ensuring everyone is aligned from the start.
For example
A health-focused NGO might discuss targets like improving local vaccination rates or reducing incidence of a specific disease, setting a clear agenda for action.
2. Stakeholder Analysis
Identifying and analyzing key stakeholders is crucial. With your team’s assistance, determine how various stakeholders, including community members, local health authorities, and potential partner organizations, will impact or be impacted by the strategic plan.
For instance,
Understanding the needs and expectations of local health departments can guide your NGO in aligning its objectives with existing health priorities.
3. Conduct Internal Audit
Assess your organization’s current capabilities and resources. This might involve evaluating the expertise of your staff in public health management, the financial resources available for health campaigns, or the operational tools at your disposal. This audit will highlight areas of strength and pinpoint critical gaps.
4. Training and Workshops
Organize training sessions and workshops to equip your team with necessary strategic planning skills. For a new NGO, sessions might focus on project management, fundraising strategies, or community outreach techniques, ensuring all team members are prepared to contribute effectively.
5. SWOT Analysis
Collaboratively conduct a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This could include strengths such as a highly qualified team, opportunities like unmet health needs in the community, and threats such as competing services from other organizations.
6. Set Preliminary Goals
Together with your team, establish preliminary goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). These goals should directly address the findings from your SWOT analysis and stakeholder feedback, ensuring they are grounded in real needs and capabilities.
Conclusion
These initial steps are vital in building a robust framework for your strategic plan, ensuring it is actionable and aligned with both internal objectives and external community needs.
