Strategic planning and implementation is critical for effective and controlled development of any organisation. There is no one best method, nor will any particular approach consistently apply to changing circumstances.

In December 2008, at the height of uncertainty associated with the credit crunch, and economic collapse, we read “Delivering on the Promise of Nonprofits”, by Jeffrey L. Bradach, Thomas J. Tierney and Nan Stone, in the Harvard Business Review, published that month.

That paper presented a view on understanding, and achieving change on the part of not-for-profit organisations. It is an illustrative read, and has shaped our approach to the development of strategies with certain clients since then. It encourages effective articulation, and presents a translation mechanism for demonstrating the practical change attainable by addressing a lofty and important mission.

It is also a lesson that can be applied within any organisation.

Incorporating those, and other, ideas, Alchymy works with not-for-profit organisations and social entrepreneurs, to help them translate their visions into practical and attainable change. In addition, we provide critical mentoring and coaching for 3rd sector executives in pursuit of the future.

Case Study:

In 2008, we conducted an analysis of the Intercountry Adoption space in ireland, on behalf of the International Adoption Association (IAA). It quickly became clear that the sector was radically under resourced, and quite unprepared for the pending ratification by Ireland of the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption.

This informed the development of a strategic plan, based on a vision for the future, which itself was translated and articulated to demonstrate the . This enabled the promotion of new organisations and infrastructure, which recently enabled the registration of the first Hague Accredited Adoption Agency in Ireland.