Writing a strategic plan takes time. Rolling it out takes intention.
At Delaware Art Museum (DelArt), the leadership team had a clear direction for the future — and a desire for staff to use their strategic plan as a tool for goal-setting, decision-making, and day-to-day alignment.
They knew the vision was solid — but recognized that clearer language and direction would help staff confidently connect their work to the plan’s goals.
When a Plan Needs a Rewrite — Not a Redo
DelArt asked us to help reframe the plan through the eyes of its staff — from educators and curators to membership teams and operations.
We started by talking with leadership to understand how they wanted the plan to guide work across departments. What parts of the language were tripping people up? When and how would staff be expected to use it?
Then we rewrote the plan with clarity, usability, and alignment in mind:
- Simplifying language without diluting intent
- Eliminating ambiguity in key terms
- Reframing core objectives through the lens of everyday decisions
The result was a version of the plan that didn’t just feel easier to understand — it felt actionable. It gave staff a clearer sense of how to apply strategic goals in their daily work, no matter their role.
It also worked in tandem with a planning worksheet the museum had created — helping staff connect their ideas to strategic goals and gain leadership approval for new initiatives.
Strategy Doesn’t Work Without Communication
This project wasn’t about changing the plan. It was about making it usable.
When internal communication is an afterthought, even the best strategy can fall flat. But when organizations translate vision into clear, applicable language, staff are more engaged — and more empowered to contribute.
DelArt had the vision.
We helped make it actionable.
Need to bring your strategic plan to life — from the inside out? Let’s Talk!
