CAI-NJ January 2017

MANAGEMENT TRENDS... from page 36.

process is an important part of most organizations’ operating rhythm. The leadership challenge, however, is to make sure that it’s more than just an exercise. To do this, I recommend an annual review of the plan, at a minimum, to see what objectives have been accomplished, what may need to be adjusted based on changing issues and what may need more resources. Think big. Do not limit your thoughts to one year. Do not limit your thoughts to one goal. There are many templates online and even consultants that will conduct some sort of a strategic plan- ning retreat for you. n

achieve the goals. Goals should be specific and not be too broad. Do not be alarmed if discussions take you back a step or two. It is part of the process. Step 5 - Complete a Written Plan: The plan should be simple, easy to read, and allow for timely review and approval. Disseminate the plan to the Board. Make a determination which parts, if any or all, should be communicated to others (committees, members, etc). It is important that the plan be used when the budget process begins to be sure that any necessary funds are aligned to meet objectives in the plan. The strategic plan and process can be as simple or expansive as you desire. The strategic planning

issues that the organization faces and that its strategic plan must address. These could include a variety of pri- mary concerns, such as funding issues, new program opportunities, changing regulations or changing needs in the client population, and so on. The point is to choose the most important issues to address. The Planning Committee should agree on no more than five to ten critical issues around which to orga- nize the strategic plan. This part of the planning stage can be time-consuming. You will need to allow ample round table and thought- ful discussion on the approaches to resolving critical issues and agreeing on the goals. There needs to be a specific emphasis on strategy to Step 4 - Develop Strategies, Goals and Objectives:

Resources: http://www.namac.org/strategic-planning-steps, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strategic_planning

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