Strategic planning might seem as exciting as watching paint dry, but it can be a game-changer for an organization. Here’s why the BC Earthquake Alliance Directors and our Executive Director, Christine Buttkus, spent a day together prepared to embrace the boredom.

We Identified our Direction and our Roles

We thought of strategic planning as our GPS. Without it, we’re just driving around aimlessly, hoping to stumble upon success. We agreed upon and defined our ultimate destination. We know where we want to end up. Our destination (our Vision) is to guide British Columbia toward a future where you (communities, organizations and individuals) are earthquake and tsunami resilient.
We’ll do that by promoting awareness and preparedness for earthquakes and tsunamis across British Columbia. We’ll develop partnerships, initiatives and community engagement opportunities (like the Great BC ShakeOut earthquake drill). We’ll provide education and resources to save lives and protect property.
Think of the BC Earthquake Alliance as Educators, Connectors, Collaborators and Emergency Preparedness Champs.

How will we do this? We have four strategic goals as the priority for the next 3 years.

  • Strengthen our operations
  • Increase community capacity
  • Tell a compelling story
  • Inspire community champions

Each strategic goal is well-defined with tactics and sub tactics that I won’t get into because that’s the job of our Executive Director and the Board (and I don’t want to bore you).

Conclusion
Sure, strategic planning isn’t the most thrilling activity, but it’s essential. It keeps you focused, prepared, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
It was much more than just one day. Prior to the full day session, each director was interviewed by a consultant and following the strategic planning session, clarification and confirmation follow-ups were required. Thank you to Toa Consulting for guiding us through an interesting process. Turns out that it was a day well spent, and not that boring at all.