2010…off and running!

A new year.  A new decade.  Welcome 2010!

As we are two weeks into 2010, Jane and I were noting that a year ago we believed the trends in 2009 would include retrenchment and consolidation.   And in many ways, that is exactly what we saw.  Organizations thinking strategically about how to shift resources to more efficiently deliver on mission.  Leaders struggling with how to deal with declines in funding - from every source.  2009 for many nonprofits was a rough year.  Is the worst behind us? 

As we look ahead to 2010, we believe that the trends around retrenchment and consolidation will continue - but with an increase in collaboration and innovative solutions.   Among our clients, we are seeing more of a willingness to partner, to explore the development of networks, to shift competitive relationships to collaborative relationships.  Driven by external forces, the sector is being forced to change.  Leaders are being forced to change the way organizations are managed and make difficult choices about staff and programs.   We believe one of the key core competencies for leaders in 2010 will be how to manage change - how to keep staff focused on mission while managing changes within the organization and in the external environment.   

We continue to be excited about our role in supporting you to enact changes in your communities and are looking forward to all that 2010 will bring.

Photo Credit: teapotqueen