4x4Voice Club Organization and Management Your Club as a Business – Start with a Plan
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| Your Club as a Business – Start with a Plan |
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| 4x4Voice - Club Organization and Management | |||
| Written by John Stewart | |||
| Wednesday, 24 June 2009 13:18 | |||
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The casual conversation has produced an idea. Now, how do you turn the idea from an abstract thought into reality? What is it you want to accomplish? What is it you need to accomplish? All good ideas happen when they have a solid plan to support them. After determining “what” is to be accomplished, the plan needs to address “how” the effort will be accomplished. This describes in general terms how the mission of the organization will be accomplished. Determining the “how” draws on a wide range of knowledge from many different business disciplines: finance, human resource management, intellectual property management, supply management, operations management, and marketing. The “how” for a non-profit organization should contain enough information to guide the organization. This is followed by a description of the structure of the organization. Will you have officers? Will you have a Board of Directors? What are the expected duties of the officers? How will officers and the Board of Directors be assigned? Next comes a brief explanation of who can participate. An important element of organizations is membership. Membership is some combination of individuals or coalitions with other organizations with shared values and vision. All organizations need to have a measurement that defines success. You have determined “who” and “how” the mission will be accomplished. A measurement of “success” will provide information that you are accomplishing your mission. Finally, your plan should outline a series of steps for those who want to join. You have determined “who” can participate. Organizations and coalitions are about creating a role for everyone to participate and contribute something to reaching the goal. Matching a willing member's skills to the needs of the organization is what builds a strong organization. It is important to note that three primary types of organizations exist: clubs, associations, and coalitions. Clubs are composed of like-minded individuals pursuing a common interest. Associations are composed of individuals and clubs and represent a broader collection of interests and retaining a strong focus on shares goals. Finally, coalitions are composed of individuals and groups with diverse interests but sharing a common goal. In all cases, clearly defined organization mission and goals are important. Each individual member should clearly define their personal mission and goals to make sure their self-interests are part of the overall organization. Organization building requires both a willingness to set aside personal agendas for a common good, and a realistic understanding that addressing the self-interests of participants is crucial. Organization should plan and carry out actions that are doable with concrete results. Their activities need to include fun and must affirm the strengths participants. The members need to take a long-range view, understanding that the organization's agenda will take time and persistence. A well-defined plan will aid in the accomplishment of the organization goals.
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