2. Develop a Strategic Plan

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At a Glance: In this section, you will learn how to turn your community’s vision into action. You’ll explore how to set clear priorities, define meaningful goals, and use tools such as logic models and progress indicators to keep efforts on track.

Why It Matters

Before a community can move forward, it needs a clear direction. A strategic plan provides that focus, turning ideas and resources into coordinated action. It gives everyone a place in the work and helps residents, partners, and city leaders see how their efforts connect to something lasting.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set Priorities, Objectives, and Outcomes

Start by identifying what matters most to your community. Make sure the goals you set reflect the values and voices of the people involved.

How to do it:

• Bring together leaders and residents from different sectors (government, nonprofits, schools, neighborhoods, etc.)
• Identify 3–5 top priorities that address urgent needs or build on existing strengths.
• Translate each priority into clear objectives and outcomes that show what success looks like.
• Link your plan to existing community vision statements or city goals so it feels connected rather than separate.

Tip: Involve cross-sector partners early. When government, nonprofits, schools, and residents share ownership, goals are more achievable and more widely supported.

🔗 For guidance on designing with residents, see Design With, Not for, the Community & Build Partnerships and Collaborative Councils.

 

2. Establish SMART Goals

Use the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to help transform ideas into actions that can be measured and achieved.

How to do it:

• Specific: Define the exact change you want to see.
• Measurable: Decide how you will track progress – through numbers, surveys, or milestones.
• Achievable: Match your goals to the time and resources available.
• Relevant: Align each goal with your community’s priorities and values.
• Time-bound: Set clear deadlines to maintain focus and accountability.

 

3. Develop a Logic Model

A logic model is a simple visual that connects your inputs, activities, and outcomes. It helps every partner understand how their contributions lead to change.

How to do it:

• Identify what resources (staff, funding, facilities) will support the plan.
• Outline main activities such as events, trainings, or outreach.
• Define outputs (immediate results) like volunteer hours or new partnerships formed.
• Describe the outcomes you expect, both short- and long-term. These might include stronger community relationships, greater participation, or measurable improvements in well-being.

Tool: Use the University of Kansas Community Toolbox Logic Model Guide for templates and examples.

🔗 A logic model also strengthens grant applications and funding proposals by showing how strategy connects to measurable outcomes. For more on fundraising, see Secure Funding for City Initiatives.

 

4. Define Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

KPIs help you know whether your work is truly making a difference. Focus on a handful of indicators that truly reflect success, not just activity.

How to do it:

• Choose metrics that match your SMART goals (e.g., volunteer participation, partnership formation, event attendance).
• Decide how often to review them - monthly, quarterly, or yearly - so adjustments can happen early.
• Balance numbers with stories. Data shows progress, but stories help people understand its value.

Tip: Keep indicators simple enough for anyone to understand and significant enough to guide real decisions. Tools such as a Progress Dashboard can make results visible to the public. Sharing updates online or during community meetings builds trust and keeps energy high.

🔗 For guidance on tracking and reporting your outcomes, see Evaluate Success and Scale Impact.

📘 See Appendix A: Example Evaluation Indicators

 

5. Balance Quick Wins with Long-Term Impact

Momentum grows when communities see results, but lasting change takes time. A strong plan combines visible successes with deeper, ongoing goals.

How to do it:

• Identify early actions that show progress right away, such as park cleanups, small beautification projects, or community service days.
• Pair those with efforts that take longer, such as leadership development, systems change, or infrastructure improvements.
• Celebrate milestones publicly to keep enthusiasm and trust strong.

🧭 Apply What You Learn

• Use frameworks such as SMART goals and logic models to keep plans actionable.
• Review progress regularly and adjust strategies as you learn.
• Share your results openly to build accountability and pride.
• Present information visually using dashboards, maps, or infographics to help everyone stay connected to the plan.

📚 Recommended Tools & Resources

• Developing and Using Criteria and Processes to Set Priorities - University of Kansas, Community Toolbox
• SMART Goals: A How To Guide - University of California
• Developing a Logic Model or Theory of Change - University of Kansas, Community Toolbox
• How to Measure Community Engagement and its Impact - Maptionnaire

(See Appendix of Additional Resources for more.)

Closing Note

Strategic planning is the bridge between vision and action. It translates community hopes into shared direction and measurable progress. When cities plan collaboratively—with clarity, transparency, and purpose—they build alignment that lasts beyond any single event or leader.

A good plan is more than a checklist—it’s a living document that evolves with the community, guiding decisions, shaping investment, and inspiring collective ownership.