Prioritizing for Impact – How Nonprofits Can Achieve More with Less

As a nonprofit professional, I do not often use the word “ruthless” in the same sentence as “nonprofit,” but when it comes to prioritization, I think it is a concept worth embracing. The differences between nonprofit organizations and for-profit organizations come up often. In general, I am not sure the comparison is particularly helpful. However, when it comes to prioritization, there are some lessons we can learn. In general, for-profit organizations do a better job of budgeting and planning. Am I suggesting we need to spend more time in budget meetings? Absolutely not! What I am suggesting does not require extra time, but it does require making tough decisions, which we know are often avoided. 

At the heart of the matter is the need for nonprofits to do more with less. We are innovation experts and always seek new ways to stretch our resources and achieve a more significant impact. However, this approach can also lead to overcommitment and taking on too many initiatives at once, and little real progress is made. Nonprofit professionals would win every season of The Amazing Race, given a chance. (We would not do so well on Survivor because we would try to get everyone to get along!) 

I think nonprofits could benefit from better planning as planning and budgeting force prioritization; sometimes, I refer to this as “ruthless prioritization.” Proper planning results in effective prioritization. Prioritization results in fewer projects being started. The focus that prioritization brings to an organization often results in faster progress on the most important projects or, as I mentioned in an earlier post, more progress on those projects that are “precious” to your mission. 

In addition to more intentional planning, establishing a clear governance process allows nonprofits can evaluate and prioritize their technology investments objectively. Effective IT Governance involves establishing criteria for evaluation, involving stakeholders in the decision-making process, allocating resources effectively, and monitoring progress along the way. 

The benefits of “ruthless prioritization” and effective IT governance are many. Not only can it help nonprofits achieve their goals more efficiently, but it can also help them better align their technology investments with their overall mission and strategy. By focusing on what matters most and avoiding distractions, nonprofits can maximize their impact and make the most of their limited resources.