Why Every Organization Needs a 30-Minute Operational Health Check
Most nonprofit organizations do not fail because of poor programmatic performance, or because their work is not meaningful. They struggle because their operational structures are weak and do not match up to their ambition. Quite often, operational problems remain hidden, and by the time they become visible, the damage to the organization is already quite extensive.
These operational problems manifest as poor cashflow, inefficient or frustrated boards, staff are burnt out and institutional knowledge is lost. All this does not happen overnight, it accumulates over time while the team is focused on delivering impactful programs. Quite often, funders will express how they value the work but are not confident that their funding would be safe within the existing operational structures.
Strong operations are an organization’s shock absorber and ensure that challenges don’t turn into crisis. However, program teams view the operational systems as roadblocks, and leaders only pay attention when things go pear shaped.
This is why I recommend a 30-minute operational health check, run quarterly, not reactively. The health check is not about perfection but rather serves the purpose of early detection and proactive management.
Download the free 30-minute operational health check
What the Checklist Really Reveals
The checklist isn’t meant to test competence.
It tests clarity.
Do we know who decides?
Do we understand our financial reality?
Are systems supporting people?
Are we governing risk or reacting to it?
The checklist may bring discomfort; and this would be a signal and not a verdict.
If the Checklist Raises Questions…
That. Is. The. Point.
That would be the starting point towards managing proactively instead of constantly reacting to crisis.
Finally, remember operational maturity is not a destination. It is consistent practice meant to support an organization to scale, adapt and endure.
