The Board Member's Guide to Strategic Planning

Fisher Howe's enthusiasm, insight, and ability to clearlyarticulate the whats and hows of effective strategic planningprovides the reader with the tools to strenghten governance andmanage effectively, which leads to results. --Lawrence W. Reger, president, National Institute for theConservation of Cultural Property Howe's practical, no-nonsense approach demystifies the oftenintimidating planning process, showing why it is essential andproviding detailed instructions for successful execution.Presenting illustrative examples and straightforward action steps,Howe guides board members through each critical step, frompreparing and conducting the planning to production of strategicand operational plans. A quick, compact guide for busy nonprofitboard members by a veteran board member and sought-after consultantto non-profits.

Foreword. THE BOARD'S PERSPECTIVE ON STRATEGIC PLANNING. Benefits of Strategic Planning. The Board's Responsibility for Strategic Planning. Examples of Strategic Planning from the Board Perspective. The Language of Planning. PREPARING FOR STRATEGIC PLANNING. Plans for Planning. Effective Planning Meetings and Retreats. Using Consultants and Facilitators. Examples of Boards Preparing for Strategic Planning. Action Steps: Preparing for Strategic Planning. CONDUCTING STRATEGIC PLANNING. Clarifying the Mission: Purpose and Values. Exploring Internal and External Environments. Identifying the Critical Issues. Articulating a Vision. Examples of Strategic Planning Outcomes. Action Steps: Conducting Strategic Planning. FROM PLANNING TO ACTION. Putting Together the Strategic Plan. Creating Operational Plans. Action Steps: Strategic and Operational Plans. KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL PLANNING. Principles of Successful Planning. Final Tips. Resources. A. Often-Heard Objections to Strategic Planning -- and Replies toThem B. A Sample Consulting Plan.