Strategic Planning Made Easy and Powerful: A Three-Part Series. PART 2

Strategic planning is a critical process that guides associations toward achieving their goals and fulfilling their missions. To make this journey impactful, we’re breaking it down into a three-part series, covering what to do before the session, how to manage the session effectively, and how to operationalize the plan for success.

Part 2: Managing the Strategic Planning Session

A well-run strategic planning session fosters productive discussions and effective decision-making. Here’s how to make it happen:

1. Share Information Ahead of Time

Provide board members and key stakeholders with relevant data and insights before the session so they come prepared to contribute.

Example: Share a pre-meeting packet with SWOT analysis results, stakeholder feedback, and competitor insights.

2. Facilitate Discussion Effectively

Set clear objectives for the session and use facilitation techniques to keep discussions focused and inclusive.

Example:

• Use breakout groups to tackle specific topics.

• Appoint a facilitator to guide conversations and ensure all voices are heard.

3. Encourage Decision-Making

Help participants prioritize initiatives and make actionable decisions during the session.

Example: Use ranking exercises or voting tools to identify top priorities for the strategic plan.

Why This Matters: A well-structured planning session ensures all voices are heard and decisions are made efficiently. It sets the stage for actionable results and a united vision. In Part 3, we’ll discuss operationalizing the strategic plan to bring it to life. Grow to Impact can guide your session to maximize productivity and outcomes.