EAI : Management Services


The Strategic Plan defines an association’s mission, goals and major strategies. It also reflects the priorities and values of the organization and shared vision of the members, volunteers and staff. It serves as a compass for guiding organization activities during the next three to five years. A viable strategic plan is the most effective way to ensure the continuity and integrity of association activities. A business plan is a tool with three basic purposes: planning, communication and management. As a planning tool, the business plan guides development of the annual financial budget. As a communication tool, it is used to attract support from major donors and assist in attracting volunteers, staff and strategic business partners. The business plan shows whether or not a not-for-profit organization has the potential to conduct mission activities and generate a positive surplus.	It requires a realistic look at every phase of operations and demonstrates to the Board that staff has worked out all the problems and decided on potential alternatives before the new budget year starts. As a management tool, the business plan helps monitor and evaluate performance. It is a living document with timelines and milestones to gauge progress, compare actual accomplishments with budget and make tactical adjustments. EAI has assisted many of its client organizations in development and implementation of strategic and business plans. In some cases, an EAI senior executive facilitates the planning process. In other cases, outside planning specialists are identified by staff to facilitate the process. EAI’s suggested planning model is outlined below: