A Simple Step to a New Reality

One of the most common frustrations within organizations is sitting through a meeting where a strategic plan is presented with little connection to the realities of the people responsible for carrying it out. Too often, stakeholders leave without a clear understanding of how the plan connects to their work, how they can contribute to its success, or how the goals will ultimately move the organization forward.

At e|solve, we work with leaders at every stage of their journey, from those stepping into new leadership roles to seasoned executives preparing organizations for long-term sustainability. Across these experiences, we consistently see one critical step overlooked: establishing a clear, shared vision before building the strategic plan. When organizations take the time to define that vision well, it creates alignment, clarity, and momentum that supports lasting success.

During a recent conversation with an organizational leader, we discussed challenges related to staff turnover and the need to refresh the organization’s strategic plan. As she described the future she hoped to create, it became clear that she already possessed a strong understanding of both the strengths and opportunities within her organization.

She spoke about her desire to build a more collaborative culture, strengthen the organization’s role within the community, and become a trusted partner for stakeholders. Throughout the conversation, her passion for the work was evident. She understood the impact she wanted the organization to make. She simply needed a process to organize and communicate that vision clearly.

This is a powerful place for leaders to be: full of ideas, motivated by possibility, and committed to meaningful impact.

Near the end of our conversation, I shared that many leaders experience this same challenge. Often, their ideas, priorities, and aspirations are all present, but they are competing for space and clarity. To support this process, we introduced her to our “Ideal Vision Setting Protocol,” a structured tool designed to help leaders clearly define and communicate the future they hope to create.

The outcome is a concise, stakeholder-friendly vision that becomes the foundation for strategic planning, communication, and organizational alignment.

After completing the protocol, we used the vision document as the starting point for engaging her leadership team. Before presenting the first draft of the strategic plan, we will first guide the team through a discussion centered on the shared vision itself. Team members will have the opportunity to reflect on what resonates with them, identify priorities, and connect their role to the organization’s future direction.

Only then will the strategic plan be introduced. This ensures the plan is not a disconnected document, but an actionable roadmap designed to bring the vision to life.

This intentional process helps organizations create alignment before implementation begins. It ensures stakeholders understand not only what the organization is doing, but why the work matters and how they contribute to its success.

At e|solve, we believe sustainable change happens when organizations combine vision, stakeholder engagement, and intentional leadership practices. Strategic plans are most effective when they are grounded in a clearly communicated vision that people can understand, support, and see themselves within.

If your organization is beginning a strategic planning process or looking to strengthen alignment within your team, we would welcome the opportunity to support your work. Please contact us at info@esolvesolutions.org to learn more about our strategic planning and vision development services.