The content in this blog has been designed to provide you with an understanding of what strategic planning is. We would like to preface that this content is introductory in nature and aims to support the development of a foundational understanding of strategic planning. 

Heading into the back end of 2021 we have been fortunate enough to have exceeded our expectations, delivering on meaningful projects, achieving financial sustainability, scaling up our team and having the opportunity to answer the question ‘where do we see ourselves as an organisation in the next five years?’

We’re seeing a number of organisations approach us for advice around organisational strategic planning - a good sign that many NFPs are starting to open conversations with community members, staff, external stakeholders and board members about their organisational direction in a post-COVID world.

Whether you engage a consultant or not, whether you go deep or light touch - there are a number of key steps that can set your strategic planning process up to be meaningful and insightful. By considering the following tips, you can ensure you have the information and insights you need to begin developing an effective strategic plan.

Needs assessment is a term that you have most likely heard of if you work for a local government or council. However, what exactly is it, why should you consider conducting one and what is the best approach? 

Way back in August, 2017 we had mentioned that we were busy working with Northern Rivers Community Gateway (NRCG) to develop a practice and purpose framework. We know that all of you have been sitting around thinking ‘I wonder where that practice framework got to?’. Well, today is your lucky day, we are finally going to deliver on our promise of sharing said practice framework with you all.