Strategic planning for charities, NGOs & third sector
organisations
Helping to Plan your future
Strategic planning serves a variety of purposes in organisations. Abbey Solutions can help guide you through the process from conception to completion. We have the talent in-house to develop your strategic plan to ensure your organisation takes the right path and flourishes.
Some key points to remember when developing a strategic plan and why its important:
- Clearly defines the purpose of the organisation and helps to establish realistic goals and objectives consistent with the organisation's mission in a defined time frame.
- Communicates those goals and objectives to the organisation's constituents.
- Ensures the most effective use is made of the organisation's resources by focusing on the key priorities.
- Provides a base from which progress can be measured and establishes a mechanism for informed change when needed.
- Provides clearer focus of the organisation, producing more efficiency and effectiveness
- Bridges staff and Board of Directors
- Increases productivity from increased efficiency and effectiveness
- Solves major problems
Planning on the level described above normally happens every few years or if the organisation is going through a major review of its practices, direction and purpose.
Annual Action planning
Each year departments need to plan for the year ahead. We can help you define your objectives, help you develop new methods of working, and ensure you reach the objectives you set within the budget you will have.
When Should Strategic Planning take place?
The scheduling for the strategic planning process depends on the nature and needs of the organisation and the changing external environment. Consider the following guidelines:
- A Strategic plan should be written when an organisation is being established or going through major changes.
- Strategic planning should also be carried out in preparation for a new major venture; for example, developing a new department or division.
- Each year, action plans should be updated.
- during implementation of the plan, the progress of the implementation should be reviewed at least on a quarterly basis by the board and senior management. Again, the frequency of review depends on the extent of change in and around the organisation.
To talk to John Abbey or Penny Cole call us on 020 8487 7464 or
john@abbeysolutions.co.uk
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