Creating Excellence in Organizational Leadership
The Path to Mission Execution and Vision Achievement in Small to Medium-Sized Churches
There are approximately 370,000 churches in the United States. Of that number, about 94% are categorized as small to medium-sized with an average attendance ranging from fewer than 100 up to 500. In past years, fewer than 10% of the churches in this category have engaged in strategic planning while roughly 87% of larger churches have engaged in that process.
Recently, however, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of strategic planning among small to medium-sized churches. According to a study conducted by Leadership Network and Vanderbloemenn Search Group, approximately 50% of the churches in this category now engage in some form of planning, highlighting the value of strategic planning in all churches, regardless of size.
Factors Influencing the Trend Towards Strategic Planning. Key factors influencing the move by small to medium-sized churches towards strategic planning include:
• Leadership. Churches with boards and staffs that are visionary, proactive leaders, are more likely to engage in strategic planning. These leaders understand the importance of planning for the future and are committed to guiding their church towards achievement of long-term goals.
• Resources. Availability of resources (facilities, staff, financial, etc.), plays a crucial role. Church leaders that understand the value of integration of effort among staff and volunteers and wise financial stewardship, are better positioned to engage in strategic planning.
• Church Size. Strategic planning benefits churches of all sizes. The key, however, is to employ a process that is appropriately scaled to the size of the church. Compared to larger churches, small to medium-sized churches require plans that are relatively simple, not burdensome, but still responsive to the dynamics of a smaller ministry. As these churches grow, however, the strategic planning process must incrementally evolve in response to that growth.
• External Environment. Changes in the community, societal trends, and economic factors are just a few of the external triggers that can prompt churches to engage in strategic planning in order to remain relevant and effective.
Benefits of Strategic Planning. Churches that engage in strategic planning usually experience:
• Clear Mission and Vision. Strategic planning helps churches to articulate a clear mission and vision, providing purpose and direction for their ministries and activities.
• Prioritized Resource Allocation. Strategic planning establishes clearly defined strategic goals and priorities that enable appropriate allocation of financial, personnel, and material resources. It promotes integration of effort among individual ministries, while minimizing tendencies towards internal organizational silos.
• Enhanced Communications. The planning process promotes open communications among church leaders, staff, and volunteers, fostering collaboration and unity.
• Adaptability. Churches that engage in strategic planning are better equipped to adapt to changing circumstances in both their internal and external environments.
Conclusion Strategic planning in small to medium-sized churches can be a significant and positive influence on their growth and sustainability. While roughly half of the churches in this category currently engage in some form of planning, the remaining churches are missing the opportunity to benefit as well. The advantages of strategic planning are clear, offering all churches a roadmap for mission execution and vision achievement by navigating the complexities of their internal and external environments. Despite the associated challenges, churches around the country are experiencing the transformative potential of strategic planning as it facilitates stronger more resilient communities of faith.
Regardless of size, Logicboard stands ready to customize a strategic plan tailored to the unique circumstances of any church, not-for-profit, or educational organization. Contact us today for more information.