Both strategic plan and operating plan play an important part in managing a nonprofit organization, but they serve different purposes
1.Purpose: A strategic plan outlines an organization's long-term goals and objectives, and the strategies and actions that the organization will take to achieve those goals.
An operating plan outlines the specific actions that the organization will take in the current year to implement the strategies and objectives outlined in the strategic plan.
2.Timeframe: A strategic plan is typically developed for a period of 3-5 years, while an operating plan is focused on the current year.
3.Focus: A strategic plan helps the nonprofit to stay focused on its mission and goals, and to make informed decisions about how to allocate resources and make changes to the organization. An operating plan helps the nonprofit to manage the day-to-day operations of the organization and to ensure that the organization is on track to meet its goals.
4.Review and update: Both plans should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis. The strategic plan is reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure that the organization's goals and objectives are still relevant and that the organization is on track to achieve them. The operating plan is reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure that the organization is on track to meet its goals and that the budget is being used effectively.
5.Audience: Strategic plans are often shared with stakeholders such as donors, funders, and community partners, while operating plans are primarily used internally.
6.Content: A strategic plan includes a vision, mission, and long-term goals, SWOT analysis, and action plan. An operating plan includes detailed budgets, timelines, and specific tasks that need to be accomplished during the year.
7.Process: A strategic plan is managed using framework such as OKR(Objectives and Key Results), while Operation plan is usually managed through program or project management methodologies
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OKRs is a simple, flexible goal setting framework that can help in set clear expectations and purpose for employees & volunteers, align everyone behind the mission for focused execution.
