Module 04 · Strategic Planning

Goals & Metrics

Translate ambition into numbers a board can defend.

What this module does

Funders fund what they can measure. Module 04 turns each priority into a small set of goals and the metrics that prove they're moving.

Watch first
Why the secret to success is setting the right goals
John Doerr

OKRs, the canonical method for turning ambition into measurable goals.

Worked example
HEAL NH, Strategic Plan 2011, 2014, Goal One objectives.
1.1 By 2013, provide community coalition planning funding and support to 4 new community coalitions, at least 2 of which will be located in rural areas. 1.2 By 2012, provide support to Round 1 Community Grant Program coalitions to sustain HEAL-related work after the grant period ends. 1.3 By 2014, provide at least 9 community coalitions across the state with ongoing access to training, technical assistance, best practices, tools and resources.

What to copy: Every HEAL objective names a number, a date, and an audience. 4 coalitions, 2 rural, by 2013. 9 coalitions by 2014. No 'increase capacity' or 'strengthen partnerships', those don't count as goals. Your Module 04 output should pass the same test.

Read the full HEAL NH plan (PDF) →
The beats
  1. 01

    Goal-set per priority

    Draft two to three concrete outcomes for each strategic priority.

    Open beat
  2. 02

    Define lead metrics

    Pick the behaviors and inputs you can move month to month.

    Open beat
  3. 03

    Define lag metrics

    Pick the outcome metrics funders will ultimately judge you on.

    Open beat
  4. 04

    Set baselines

    Capture today's number for each metric, no baseline, no story.

    Open beat
  5. 05

    Stress-test feasibility

    Walk each goal past program staff to confirm it's achievable, not aspirational fiction.

    Open beat