As the world moves quickly around us, there are new ideas — bright, shiny objects — floating about and clouding our view. Sometimes it’s hard to stay focused — these new technologies, new ways of meeting, new ideas for education, and new ways of thinking can seem like great ideas that should be carried out immediately.
But before you act on them, consider that a bright, shiny object that isn’t part of your strategic plan can easily distract your board colleagues and hurt the organization’s progress. You may waste money and time chasing an idea and, in the end, your members suffer. So, how do you evaluate those so-called brilliant ideas and remain nimble while staying focused on strategic objectives? You can work with your executive staff to devise a plan for evaluating new projects.
Define the Project and Estimate Impact
First things first: make sure the idea is a sound one. Review it with your board, colleagues, or staff. Then, think about the potential impact — both positive and negative — on your association, staff, and board. A new project can take time away from ongoing initiatives and weigh staff and volunteers down. As an unfunded board directive, this new project can create challenges and conflicting priorities. Outline all of the costs associated with the project, including staff time and volunteer labor requests. Look to your staff for help. Their experience with multiple associations and expertise can help you determine the next steps. It may be necessary for staff to develop a proposal for the specific project, to ensure it’s done in a cost-effective and timely fashion.
Review Long-Term Goals
Your new project may have stemmed from a board meeting or call, or you may have heard about it from a colleague in your industry. What about social media — if you’re active on any platform you’re constantly inundated with new ideas that you — and everyone — should be doing. But how do those ideas fit into your strategic plan? Together with your staff, take a look at your objectives for the quarter, year, or years ahead and see if your new project fits in well. Can this new project help you achieve the goals? If your answer is no or you are unsure, you may want to table the idea.
Create a Timeline
If your new project fits in with your strategic goals, you should construct a realistic timeline for completion of the project. Factor in all your association’s priorities and events in the coming months. Be as realistic as possible.
Set Expectations
It’s absolutely vital to discuss expectations on all parts before moving forward with a project. Make sure everyone is on the same page. What will make this project a success? Who will evaluate it?
