Strategic Planning Insights with Senior Consultant, Adrienne Jordan
| As a Prouty Project Senior Consultant, Adrienne Jordan works with mission-driven organizations to develop their strategic plan. We recently sat down with Adrienne to capture her thoughts on the strategic planning process. Her insights are sure to inspire you! |
In your experience, what are the most common challenges organizations face during strategic planning, and how do you address them?
Adrienne highlighted three key challenges that organizations often encounter:
- Embracing Ambiguity
- Decision-Making
- Intentional Implementation
Adrienne’s approach is grounded in a philosophy of possibility. She encourages her clients to dream big, even if it means stepping into uncharted areas. “As we challenge assumptions,” she shares, “we might find ourselves in a gray space.” Realize, it is in that very space, though sometimes uncomfortable, where transformative ideas take root.
Still, every organization eventually faces the challenge of making decisions. Adrienne emphasizes how inclusivity and decisiveness can work in harmony together. What this harmony looks like is dependent on each organization and their priorities. How do we consider all perspectives, and where will we decide to make our big bets? What do we truly believe in?
When it comes to implementation, Adrienne is clear: a well-designed strategic plan does not guarantee successful implementation. What are the actions underneath our strategies? How will we address barriers? How do we define success? There is no one-size-fits-all tool for implementation. Consider what systems to put in place that will be sustainable over time. “Simple is better,” Adrienne advises.
What is your approach to aligning strategic planning with financial forecasting, budgeting, and goals?
Adrienne believes that possibility and finances don’t have to be at odds. That said, sometimes when we look at things solely through a financial lens, it can be hard to dream. That’s why Adrienne encourages her clients to take a step back and to return to their mission and values. “What impact do we want to make? How do we want to serve our community?” When we are clear on our purpose, the resources will follow. With a well-defined strategic plan, the budget can be aligned to support the vision and priorities. Explore the possibilities first, keeping in mind there will be space and opportunity to determine how to make possibility a reality.
How do you ensure that the strategic planning process is inclusive and considers diverse perspectives?
For Adrienne, inclusivity is woven into every step of the strategic planning process. She customizes her approach to each client. This starts at the data gathering level, making sure to include voices that need to be heard and understood throughout the process. Adrienne keeps this authentic input at the center. Continuously asking: does our strategic plan align with what we have learned and heard? Are we truly and meaningfully considering all voices and perspectives? How do we honor these lenses and incorporate these views throughout the process?
When the strategic plan phase of the journey comes to a close, Adrienne always takes a moment to reflect with each client. What is present, and, just as importantly, what is missing? Did we center and acknowledge the voices we heard as we built our strategic plan? How will we acknowledge and address any gaps we have identified?
A successful strategic plan is one where those deeply connected to the organization can see themselves in it and have had a genuine opportunity to help develop it along the way.
Ready to take your strategic planning to the next level?
If you or your organization would like to learn more about Adrienne, strategic planning, or both, we would love to hear from you! Reach out to Adrienne Jordan today to start a conversation about how she can support you in building an inclusive, collaborative, and transformative strategic plan that is full of possibilities!
Contact Adrienne!