Amplifying Impact Through Strategic Planning

In this conversation from our video series, Transformative Collaboration for Enduring Impact: Conversations with Our Partners, The INS Group President, Ruth Peebles, and the North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants (NCAPA) CEO Emily Adams, reflect on partnering to execute a strategic planning process. The collaboration led to transformative outcomes for NCAPA while facilitating continued growth and impact.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the conversation:

1. The Importance of a Thoughtful and Inclusive Process

Involving stakeholders is an important activity in a successful strategic planning process. By engaging diverse voices at every level of the organization, the process was inclusive in shaping NCAPA’s future. This intentional approach ensured the plan was grounded in the organization’s actual needs.

2. Focus on Tangible Results and Accountability

Strategic plans often look great on paper but fail to drive real action. To avoid this, clear roles and tracking tools were established during the process to support accountability and plan execution. This attention to measurable outcomes and ongoing accountability ensured that the plan was not just a document but a living roadmap guiding the organization’s activities.

3. Be Honest and Realistic When Setting Goals

A key insight from the conversation was the importance of focusing on realistic organizational goals. While strategic planning can spark ambitious dreams, aligning those aspirations with the organization’s capacity and resources is crucial for long-term success.