Definitions

Strategic planning is a disciplined effort to produce key decisions and actions that both shape and guide what an organization is, what it does, and where it is going. Highly-effective organizations are clear and unified about their mission, vision, values, and goals. They know exactly what they want to achieve and have a strategic plan that focuses organizational resources on goal achievement.

Strategic positioning is a more specialized tool used to define an organization's position within a larger context of niche, competition, and constituency. This process is useful for organizations that want to become more focused and distinct; fully own a market niche; or better leverage their assets and brand.

Our Unique Approach

Nonprofit Impact believes that effective strategic planning starts with a thorough analysis. We conduct a systematic, objective situation analysis to fully understand the context in which the organization is operating. The analysis examines internal, external, and market conditions, as well as future or anticipated conditions. It seeks to define the three or four critical strategic issues that organizations must decide in order to plan effectively.

Based on the analysis, organizations can make deliberate decisions that ultimately define the goals and strategies necessary to achieve desired results. Nonprofit Impact's intensive one-day planning process keeps organizations focused, strategic, and productive.

The resulting strategic plan is a concise document that guides the organization over a three-to five-year period. It is a tool used at every board and staff meeting to answer the questions, "Are we on track?" and, "How must we adjust?"

Nonprofit Impact believes that for some organizations to get to the next level it is not sufficient to define purpose and direction; they must also articulate their strategic position and niche relative to other organizations in the market. Our strategic positioning process helps organizations examine their potential for growth or development and define the position they will occupy within their institutional landscape.

Service Descriptions & Products

Whether you want to define your purpose and direction, position, or underlying business model, Nonprofit Impact can help you get there.

We also provide training and presentations on these topics. Please contact us to discuss a customized presentation or workshop for your group.

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