The NISO model

This section addresses how long a strategic plan needs to be and introduces a simple model to clearly articulate strategy, even in a brief “elevator ride.”
The model focuses on four core elements: the need, the big idea, the strategy, and organisational capacity.
The need is a significant, noble problem connected to a specific constituency, and the idea is the clear, creative solution designed to meet that need.
The strategy explains how the idea is brought to life cost-effectively and sustainably, while organisational capacity refers to the people, systems, and resources required to execute and sustain it.
When these elements are aligned, they express vision, guide execution, enable measurement at every level, and form the essence of a strong strategic plan.