5  Loop Team Objectives

Link to Slides Being Used During Lerner Loop Team Workshops

Starting in March 2024, the individual brainstorming phase of strategic planning, whose responses are here, will be used to meet these three objectives:

  1. Kickstart more collaborative brainstorming,
  2. converge towards aspirational ideas that get area support, and
  3. propose how your area aspirationally sees itself over the next five years.

5.2 Brainstorming Instructions

The strategic planning process outlined in these instructions centers around developing a white paper that captures the unique vision and goals of a specific unit, major, or area. Here’s a breakdown of the goals for each component of the strategic planning process:

5.2.1 Brainstorming Goals

  1. Aspirations of the LLT Unit/Major/Area: This involves articulating the long-term goals and ambitions of the LLT unit. It requires a forward-looking perspective, considering where the unit aims to be and what it hopes to achieve. It should be based on data and include information from peer and aspirational programs.
  2. Mission-Focused Push Points: The strategic plan is structured around four key areas, each with its own set of objectives and strategies:
  • Pioneering Scholarship: This push point focuses on advancing knowledge through research and innovation. The goal is to establish the LLT unit as a leader in academic and practical research that contributes to the body of knowledge in its field.
  • Inspirational Education: Here, the emphasis is on delivering educational experiences that are transformative and motivational. The LLT unit aspires to create learning environments that inspire students and participants to reach their full potential.
  • Inclusive Communities: This point aims to foster a culture of inclusivity and diversity within the LLT unit. It involves creating opportunities for a wide range of individuals to contribute and benefit from the unit’s initiatives.
  • Business and Societal Impact: The focus is on creating positive change in society and business through the LLT unit’s activities. This involves developing strategies that have a tangible impact on communities and industries.

5.2.2 Part 2 - Converging Ideas

For each of the push points, the white paper should address the following aspects: * Distinctiveness: Identify and articulate what sets the LLT unit apart. This could include unique methodologies, subject matter expertise, or innovative research and teaching approaches. * Passion: Describe the driving force behind the LLT unit’s work. This could be a commitment to excellence in education, a dedication to research, or a passion for societal change. * Economic Viability: Assess and present the economic sustainability of the LLT unit’s activities. This includes potential revenue streams, cost-effectiveness, and long-term financial planning. * Flywheel Potential: Explore the synergistic potential between the four push points. This involves identifying opportunities where progress in one area can propel advancements in others, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of improvement and impact.

5.3 Proposing

At the end of this process, by April 5, 2024, we are hoping each area will submit one (or more) proposals for how they aspirationally see their area fitting in at Lerner going forward. A sample proposal can be found here:

This phase of the strategic planning process aims to create a cohesive and comprehensive plan that communicates the LLT unit’s unique identity, values, and objectives while establishing a practical roadmap for achieving its aspirations.

5.4 Our Intent

“The space in which we live should be for the person we are becoming now, not for the person we were in the past.” ― Marie Kondō, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing

Adam and I are available to provide guidance and help with any questions or concerns you have. We look forward to working with you on this exciting part of the process!