1. Where We’re At
- Moving from mission, vision, values → into strategic priorities.
- Step one: assess context to understand the current position before defining the future.
2. SWOT Analysis
- Strengths: assets, resources, people, partnerships.
- Weaknesses: problems, gaps, bottlenecks.
- Opportunities: openings, trends, timing windows.
- Threats: external risks (political, financial, regulatory).
- Avoid focusing too much on weaknesses; build on strengths & opportunities.
3. PEST/PESTLE Analysis - Broad external view:
- Political | Economic | Social | Technological | Environmental | Legal.
- Helps assess policies, culture, tech, climate, and laws.
4. Porter’s Five Forces - Map the field:
- Who else works here? Who are donors, partners, and competitors?
- What innovations/substitutes exist?
- How intense is activity in this field?
5. Purpose of Context Tools
- Ground planning in reality, not wishful thinking.
- Build shared understanding among leaders.
- Identify momentum, risks, and unique opportunities.
- Set the stage for defining strategic priorities next.