Strategic planning for organizational effectiveness during dynamic change

Area of Science:

• Gerontological Nursing
• Organizational Strategy
• Professional Associations

Background:

• Professional associations require strategic plans to align with organizational goals and mission.
• The National Gerontological Nursing Association (NGNA) traditionally employed a goal-based strategic planning methodology.
• This approach aligns with leadership preferences, the organization's mission-driven culture, and fosters collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the strategic planning process undertaken by the NGNA.
• To detail the development of the 2010–2011 NGNA strategic initiatives.
• To highlight the relevance of this process for other organizations aiming for constituent service improvement.

Main Methods:

• A deliberate transformation process was initiated in 2009 by the NGNA Board of Directors.
• The study discusses the strategic planning process leading to the 2010–2011 initiatives.
• Incorporation of data from the 2011 needs assessment survey was central to the process.

Main Results:

• The strategic planning process resulted in defined initiatives for 2010–2011.
• Key findings from the 2011 needs assessment survey informed future directions.
• Future initiatives are focused on enhancing networking, communication, and membership benefits.

Conclusions:

• The goal-based strategic planning process facilitated NGNA's transformation into a more dynamic, member-driven association.
• The identified initiatives aim to strengthen member engagement and organizational effectiveness.
• The strategic planning methodology is adaptable and valuable for diverse organizations seeking to better serve their members.