Growth Through Organization Design

Leadership, Nonprofits, Organization Design

With each new year that begins, we instinctually turn our attention to reflecting upon the past and planning for the future. Inevitably those thoughts involve the concepts of change and growth.

For an organization that is planning for future viability this means understanding the changes in the landscape in which they operate and designing their growth strategy accordingly.  

While there are many ways to grow an organization, it is critical to question if each option is able to absorb significant increases in operational complexity and staffing demands, and if it aligns with overall strategic thinking. 

Growth through organization design addresses this by evaluating the structure, functional alignment, processes, systems, and the skillsets required to manage and operate an organization at a larger scale. As a result of this process, cost savings are often uncovered which can be utilized to improve efficiencies and add much needed resources and capacity.

When you focus on the design of an organization you identify:

• Cost savings

• Growth opportunities

• Process improvement

• New skills or capabilities needed

• Systems to glue it all together

A well-designed organization will effectively deliver services, operate efficiently, and have positive workforce morale. By first establishing higher levels of order and organization, you form a solid foundation and infrastructure that is prepared to support significant growth. 

Having a detailed plan and specific approach for growth through organization design is a major factor in successfully restructuring and positioning your organization for success.