A strategic development plan is the foundation of any nonprofit's goals and mission attainment. Your strategic plan should be actionable, mission-driven, and donor-centric, outlining the practical tactics needed to address these obstacles over a certain timeframe—usually three years. Without such a roadmap, the path forward is anyone's guess. However, with an effective plan in place, you provide the momentum needed to launch your mission to new heights. Here are a few key highlights to consider as you develop your strategy.
Strategic Development Planning Questions
As you develop your strategic plan, focus on key questions that address the core areas you hope to grow. Prepare your roadmap before the meeting and ensure all parties are on board. This will make your strategic planning more constructive and yield the desired outcomes.
- How do you build diverse and sustainable revenue streams?
- What development activities should you employ to strengthen your nonprofit's financial stability?
- How do you prioritize and balance these activities?
- How do you staff and operate your development department to establish consistent and effective execution over time?
Strategic Development Planning Process
Assessment Phase—Evaluate Current Effectiveness and Benchmark Performance.
- Align with the leader on project charters.
- Conduct information requests.
- Interview staff and donors.
In-Person Strategy—Establish Realistic Goals.
- Preview preliminary solutions.
- Conduct half-day in-person sessions for strategic alignment.
- Create a one-page data summary and thought-work questionnaire.
Delivery—Provide a Practical, Action-Oriented, and Achievable Plan with a Calendar and KPIs.
- Present a 3–5-page strategic playbook.
- Refine the plan with ongoing feedback.
- Create individual roadmaps for 3-5 key players.
Execution Support—Adapt Your Plan to Achieve Key Goals Amidst Life’s Changes
- Conduct a two-month post-launch review of the progress, including key players in all-day collaboration.
- Conduct periodic reviews, typically quarterly.
- Conduct an annual review with reporting and collaboration from all aspects of the organization. Identify the good, bad, and ugly.
Why a Strategic Development Plan is Needed
In conclusion, a strategic development plan is extremely important as it forms the foundation of a well-functioning development program. An excellent strategic plan should be actionable, mission-driven, and donor-centric, detailing practical day-to-day tactics to address key areas over a typical three-year period. Don’t overlook this vital component of your organization; investing in a strategic plan is highly beneficial and will support and sustain your mission for years to come.
Strategic Development Planning Templates
Simple Strategic Development Planning Templates
Smartsheet Strategic Plan Templates in Word and Google Docs
Strategic Planning Template for Canva
