Sun Tzu for Non-Profits

First shown at 3 Wins Consulting.

Historians still question the existence of a General named Sun Tzu. That said, “The Art of War” and its various adaptations are viewed as required reading for developing strategy. Based on references made in the original text, it’s suggested Sun Tzu was alive somewhere between 722 and 481 BCE. “The Art of War” presents a philosophy of war for managing conflicts and winning battles across any environment and the lessons have merit to non-profits fighting for survival in today’s economy.

"Use the normal force to engage; use the extraordinary to win." -Sun Tzu-

It’s alright to think big and, in fact, it’s preferred. When you’re doing you’re planning, keep in mind that it usually takes just as much time and effort to accomplish small goals as it does the big ones. Also consider that to capture attention, it’s expected that your message be disruptive and even intrusive to gather the greatest benefits.

"Tactics change in an infinite variety of ways to suit changes in the circumstances." -Sun Tzu-

Your plan needs to be flexible because, let’s face it, things will change. Non-profits that relied solely on a small number of large benefactors are scrambling as those bodies tighten budgets to weather this economy. The successful non-profit includes a tactic that involves more people and decreased levels of involvement to ensure solubility. While everyone has been affected by the downturn, the groups with a diverse base of supporters are far healthier.

"Speed is the essence in war. What is valued in war is a quick victory, not prolonged operations." –Sun Tzu-

You’ve heard the term “paralysis by analysis”. So often, we see groups stalled at the planning stage and not actually doing anything. Napoleon believed a plan was two-thirds analysis and one-third was a leap in the dark. Will Rogers offered, “Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there”.

"When torrential water tosses boulders, it is because of momentum." –Sun Tzu-

When you’ve hit one out of the park, get going on the next project. In fact, your plan should be a series of events that build one upon the other.

While planning is important, the key is execution. George Patton explained, “A good plan, violently executed now, is better than a perfect plan next week”. Perhaps the easiest way to get at the results you need for your group is to work backwards. Define the goal (make it big), measure your resources, establish the gaps, move to fill the shortcomings, assign your course and act. Its also expected that you not have all the answers for all the problems…and its okay to ask for help.