Nonprofit strategies for success
Effectiveness for a nonprofit organization can be measured by numbers; people served, area served, total annual donation amounts, etc. What gets a nonprofit organization to a level of effectiveness that can be measured is strategy. The business plan for a nonprofit is one part of strategy. Here are some aspects to consider when developing a strategy for your nonprofit organization.
Strategy is crucial to an organization to making responsible choices and informed decisions. Strategy allows an organization to focus on its mission, deliver services, and plan for the future with foresight and vision.
Strategize; don’t plan. Specific action plans are part of an effective nonprofit strategy, but it is not a strategy per se. A strategy doesn’t focus on immediate needs but rather provides a method for advancing the cause in a sustainable and responsible manner.
Model for success. Isolated plans or functions within an organization can create siloes; functional teams that focus on their deliverables independent of the core mission. Administering a nonprofit for success involves coaching workers to reach out beyond their area of influence and operate cross functionally with the goal of fulfilling the core mission effectively.
Go for the goals. Measurable and achievable goals are important to any effort, but setting, meeting, and surpassing goals do not constitute a strategy. It’s important that goals be identifiable and quantifiable, but a strategy positions the organization beyond the immediate goals.
Stay efficient to stay effective. Operational efficiency is a given with any business, but it’s especially important for nonprofits to maximize the limited assets and fluctuating level of donations they have. Effectiveness goes beyond efficiency in that it involves a unique approach, method, and application of what makes your organization unique amongst the others.
Continuously improve. The nonprofit landscape is always changing as needs increase or decrease, new organizations are formed to address a need and as community involvement varies. Being able to plan and prepare for the future is a process of self-examination and re-examination. Revisiting and readjusting your nonprofit strategy to address current conditions keeps your organization lean and nimble.
Understanding the unique benefit and value of your nonprofit organization helps develop an operating strategy that will be responsive and robust both now and in the future. Geranda Projects is your nonprofit consultant for developing and managing strategies for not-for-profit and community organizations. Geranda Projects offers its vast, integrated experience to develop, implement and manage fund development strategies for not-for-profit and community organizations. From implementing visionary plans to building organizational capacity and community awareness, we understand that organizations often need assistance or guidance to address these skill intensive projects. We are ready to help build philanthropy and community relations from the very heart of your mission. Geranda Projects will bring a fresh perspective while recognizing and respecting your organization’s culture. We will mentor, educate and guide you in the process that will give you the tools to succeed and inspire you to reach your greatest potential.
Does your nonprofit effort need a strategy for success?