A strong non-profit strategic plan does more than set direction—it defines where you’re going and how you’ll know you’re getting there. Clear strategic goals and measurable objectives help the Board, Executive Director and management team turn vision and mission into action, accountability and results. If your goals don’t clearly define where you’re going, how will anyone know when you’ve arrived?

Getting ready for non-profit strategic planning can feel like a lot. Your Board needs to decide why you’re planning, who to involve, which strategic planning process and model to use, and whether you need an outside facilitator or consultant. Asking the right questions before you begin can make all the difference. Before you start creating your strategic plan, has your Board stopped to ask what you actually need from the process?