A strategic planning, or strategic discernment, process identifies a small number of key priorities and then creates the necessary plans to move your church or ministry toward the vision.
The Problem
Visioning efforts often create an inspirational statement without answering, “How will we get there?”
The Goal
Identify the strategic priorities and plans to accomplish the vision.
The Process
Each strategic discernment process is a collaborative effort with a leadership team and is tailored to fit your specific needs and context. Typical steps in the process are:
- Review the current vision, and clarify or revise if appropriate
- Obtain relevant input (e.g., surveys, focus groups, statistical data)
- Define key implications of the vision
- Identify a small number of strategic priorities that will best advance the vision
- Develop specific action steps for each strategic priority
- Design a plan for communication and implementation
Example
A mid-size church had developed a vision statement several years earlier, but this was little more than a slogan on their Sunday bulletin. In the strategic discernment process, the leadership team sharpened this vision with a clear focus on discipleship. They then identified priorities related to community-building, biblical teaching, and hospitality, and they created specific steps for each. As a result, the church has experienced revitalization after a long period of stagnation.
Contact me to schedule a time to discuss how a strategic discernment process might benefit for your church or ministry.