Strategic Planning
Whether you're embarking on a new project or campaign, trying to build a stronger base of monthly donors, or trying to bring your message to a wider new audience, strategic planning is a MUST. Otherwise, it's kind of like stumbling around in the dark, going in circles trying to reach the exit and you keep bumping into your co-workers and stepping on their shoes. Who wants that, right?
Taking the time at the outset to develop a well-articulated plan that includes a shared vision, clear goals, metrics to measure success (or failure - hey, it happens!), deliverables, projections and a timeline for reaching the various milestones will help to ensure the success of whatever it is you're trying to do. And it can go a long way to helping avoid confusion, wasted effort, and interpersonal office drama, too.
Unless you're starting something brand new, my recommendation is to begin with a quick audit of the existing efforts.
My process is flexible but usually includes the following:
- Interviews with key stakeholders
- A review of any relevant materials - emails, web sites, direct mail pieces, videos, etc.
- A review of past results
- Staffing plan
- Messaging calendar, including social media promotions
- Campaign plan(s)
- Paid and earned recruitment recommendations