4 Discussion Board Replies (250 Words Each) Due 9/28 10pm EST

Discussion Board 1 – Read and Respond

Introduction

Nonprofit launch initiatives directed at changes for an organization of this magnitude should begin with an adaptable plan. Here important objectives are identified with the basic concept of how and when the organization can facilitate action. Comprehending the dynamics of challenges being addressed and the resources required is essential for a realistic assessment on a myriad of levels. Allison and Kaye (2005) believe organizers “must recognize that the mission’s success lies in getting involvement from all parts of the organization” (p. 32). That being stated, further illustrates the importance of strategic processing as it relates to communication, evaluation, and prioritization.

Communication

Establishing effective, viable channels of communication provide a means to introduce concerns and begin dialogs. Broadening the scope of the assessment to include feedback from all chapters elicits engagement and improves clarity. Creating forums that openly invites two-way dialog as a means to shore up the effectiveness of communication often mitigate risk associated with subjective perspectives and assumptions. The nonprofit sector encompasses perspectives from volunteers, staff, and board members that are all challenged with meeting diverse mission goals. Murphy (2013) stresses the importance of creating a work environment conducive to working “productively with team members who have different objectives” (p.68).

Evaluation

Decentralized modes of operation within the 100 chapters have presented a challenge with approaching any aspect of changes unilaterally. Consequently, the intricate details of program assessments supportive of the mission statement should commence immediately. Cognitive perceptions of circumstances will help all communicators establish frames of reference that elicit clarity of details for critical thinking and decision making. Reflecting briefly on Proverbs 19:2 (KJV) “Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth” provides sensible rational for deliberating before giving in to impulsivity. Further delineation of metrics and the cogent analysis of practical applications encourage systematic consensus of outcomes. Ardent attention to details derived collectively will potentially reveal more neglected or overlooked contributing factors. In an effort to minimize wasted resources on duplicate or inane resolves, project objectives may require redirection.

Prioritization

Managing the strategy involves connecting developmental designs to implementation efforts (Worth, 2014, p. 161). Fragmentation plays a critical role in the strategic planning process too. Knowing the objective breakdowns and how they will fall into place within the grand scheme facilitates better control of capacity. The availability and allocations of organizational resources can limit progress or drain resources designated for future growth. Here timing is essential to negotiating and determining when and how to drive progress while mitigating risk.

References

Allison, M., & Kaye, J. (2005). Strategic Planning for Nonprofit Organizations: A Practical Guide and Workbook (2nd Edition). Hoboken, NJ, USA: John Wiley & Sons. Retrieved from http://www.ebrary.com

Murphy, M. (2013). Practical Project Management for Agile Nonprofits: Approaches and Templates to Help You Manage With Limited Resources. Foundation Review, 5(3), 68-69. doi:10.9707/1944-5660.1172

Worth, M. J. (2014). Nonprofit management: Principles and practice (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications. ISBN: 9781452243092.

Discussion Board 2 – Read and Respond

National Youth Organization

There are several complexities facing the National Youth Organization and the many chapters throughout the nation. All of the associated problems stimulates from some form of management problem or the lack thereof, such as the ineffective programs, inadequate funding, staff competency etc. Due to the fact that the organization was able to expand domestically, indicates that their mission is substantial as it relates to providing social contributions, and having knowledge of this, only a few adjustments will need to made with regards to generating success for this organization.

Ecclesiastes 7:14- “In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him” (KJV). This scripture is essential, in that it causes those who may have experienced prosperity at some point, to examine the reasons for the adversity, or perplexed times that they may be facing. With regards to the national youth facility specifically, the first thing that I would change is how the organization manages the resources which are supplied. The Bible declares that the earth is the Lords, and the fullness thereof, which indicates humans operate as stewards over that which the Lord has provided.

I would examine the programs which are lacking or not achieving the desired results, while determining if adequate time and resources are available to continue in such a manner. For example, the programs that are struggling within our organization specifically, but is the strength of another, I would develop a partnership which would enable members of the national youth organization to receive services from other flourishing organizations.

First and foremost, seeking the Lord for wisdom just as Solomon did when tasked with building a temple unto the Lord will be the approach that I would utilize. The Bible records the success of Solomon building a temple unto the Lord, and how wisdom enabled him to utilize all of the provided resources both human, and tangible to its full potential. Interacting with the leadership and engaging with the organizations youth members, will also be an employed method, as it will provide an ideal perspective of what works and what does not work from several angles. “Japanese automakers are profitable, so they have plenty of money available to invest in improving part quality, hire additional engineers, etc. This increases reliability, which increases profits, which allows for more investment, etc. Profit is a positive feedback loop” (Quora, 2013). The Toyota Production System (TPS) is an example of how an organization can effectively manage all resources, which cutting all fat and remaining lean.

References

Quora (2013). Why Don't All Automakers Copy 'The Toyota Way' In Order To Be As Reliable As Toyota? Retrieved from: http://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2013/06/24/why-do-all-automakers-not-copy-the-toyota-way-in-order-to-be-as-reliable-as-toyota/