What is strategic planning? Strategic planning is a process by which an organization determines its direction and allocates resources to attain its long-term goals. It involves setting objectives, determining actions to reach them, and ensuring the organization aligns toward a common purpose.

How is Strategic Wayfinding different? Strategic Wayfinding focuses on a human-centered approach, utilizing designed thinking processes. The framework does not attempt to predict the future but aligns the organization’s focus on the work that matters, toggling between three mindsets: generative, grappling, and framing. Strategic Wayfinding ultimately empowers organizations to navigate uncertainty more effectively and pursue enduring solutions that resonate with those they serve.

Is this process well-suited for my organization? Strategic Wayfinding forges the best results for organizations with an inherent culture of curiosity. The methodology’s generative nature amplifies those seeking more depth and dimension in their journey. In our experience, teams whose primary motivation for pursuing a strategic plan is to satisfy a funder, obtain accreditation, or for compliance do not find the process as impactful.

What size organization is Strategic Wayfinding suited to? What-if Concepts serves small to medium-sized social sector organizations. Additional consultants and resources may need to be retained for larger organizations to serve a broader network.

How long will it take to complete the process? Depending on past planning work and the flexibility of the client and consultant’s schedule, the general framework can be completed within two or three months. More dedicated efforts can last six to twelve months. The most significant variable to consider is the frequency and depth of engagement with clients, community members, peer organizations, and stakeholders.

Is there a checklist we might review before launching a strategic process? What-if Concepts has a readiness assessment to share if a prospective client is interested. Primary considerations include the willingness of the key stakeholders to participate (staff, board, advisors), the ability to schedule sessions that maximize participation, and the organization’s stability.

How does What-if-Concepts bill for its services? Invoices are submitted after each phase of the planning process. There are three phases to the Strategic Wayfinding process (Generative, Grappling, and Framing).

What if the client chooses to terminate/pause/or reconsider the process? The contract for services outlines the process for terminating/pausing the engagement. The contract generally allows for a termination/pause at the end of each phase.