Lifespan
Lifespan - Offsite Strategy Retreat
Challenge
Lifespan is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help older adults and caregivers take on the challenges and opportunities of longer life. Founded almost 50 years ago, Lifespan helps nearly 40,000 older adults each year through a wide variety of services.
Lifespan updates its strategic plan every three years. An important first step is to establish a solid foundation for strategic planning involving both board and staff.
Approach
Westover Strategy Chief Executive Susan Byrd is managing the strategic planning process. She proposed a SWOT analysis, followed by an offsite retreat for board and staff. Susan worked with President/CEO Ann Marie Cook to prepare, summarize, and analyze the SWOT. In addition, Susan planned the retreat thoughtfully, including the agenda, pre-read, breakout groups, and desired outcomes. A Strategic Planning Committee guided by Susan and composed of both board and staff is responsible for next steps, including developing a one-page Strategy Map.
Results
The retreat was well planned and all participants were thoroughly engaged. As background, the SWOT was reviewed and discussed, then the breakout groups each developed and presented suggested strategic priorities. The strategic priorities provide valuable input on a strategic path for Lifespan. All participants enjoyed the experience and agreed that it was a productive start to the strategic planning process.
Susan’s leadership in guiding us through and planning these important first steps in our strategic planning process is exceptional. It far exceeded my expectations. Based on the SWOT and the Strategy Retreat, we now have a solid foundation for productive strategic planning. Her expertise is evident and builds confidence in the outcomes for our stakeholders. I know we can build a solid plan that will guide our organization for the future.