WIM/WiN-SK Strategic Planning Tool

WIM/WiN-SK is seeking support to ensure a functional strategic planning tool. We are looking for an ideal candidate to support us with improving and simplifying our existing Excel-based strategic planning tool and to conduct desktop research on what strategic planning and execution software or apps exist that could meet our needs as a primarily volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization. Additionally, we will need support with implementing the chosen solution.  WIM/WiN-SK’s Strategic Plan WIM/WiN-SK established a  five-year strategic plan in 2022  under the pillars of  Inspire, Connect, and Support  that is meant to help our organization achieve our vision and deliver on our mission while acting in alignment with our values. In collaboration with the Executive Director, 6 operating committees, and 3 board committees, the board of directors determines the strategic plan annually.   WIM/WiN-SK’s strategic plan currently consists of 12 overarching goals and 60 specific actions which align with one of the three pillars of  Inspire, Connect, and Support . Additionally, we are currently tracking 17 key performance indicators (KPIs). Reporting on the KPIs and progress on strategic action items are under the responsibility of either the Executive Director, one of the six operating committees (Mentorship, Scholarship & Recognition, Events, Mine Your Potential, WIMNspiration, Communications), or one of the three board committees (Governance, Human Resources, Finance). To maintain effective oversight, the board of directors expects those responsible for each action to report on progress prior to each board meeting (4 to 8 times per year). The current strategic planning tool was purchased as a template and has been modified to fit our needs. Unfortunately, the Excel tool is quite cumbersome for those responsible to update, for board members to review, and was very challenging to modify to accommodate our detailed strategic plan. For example, when updating, a responsible person must check all three KPI tabs and all three Action Plan tabs. Ideally, we want to make it easy and straightforward for each responsible person to know what items they are responsible for updating (e.g., progress status) and update them ahead of board meetings. Additionally, there are some dashboard reporting features which are not functioning properly in our current tool.  Functional Outcomes From the board’s perspective, we want to successfully execute our strategy and be able to review information to determine: quickly ●      That each responsible person/group has provided updates on strategic actions, objectives, and KPIs ahead of board meetings and receives a summary of how each responsible party is progressing.   For instance, how many KPIs and action items have each responsible party been assigned and how are they progressing compared to the original plan.  ●      How KPIs actuals are trending compared to targets, and receive a brief explanation of any variations to the plan. ●      How individual action items are progressing compared to the original due dates, a forecast of when the action will be complete, and a brief explanation of any variations to the plan or request for additional resources or support.  ●      How the organization is trending to complete strategic objectives and goals.  Additionally, we would like to increase the functionality of the strategic planning tool so there is a means: ●      For the board to provide feedback or insights to those responsible for KPIs and/or action items.  ●      To easily update the strategic objectives, actions, and KPIs annually as we prepare the next year’s strategic plan.  ●      To easily update strategic goals every 5 years as we develop a new multi-year plan.