Strategic Planning for Social Impact: From Linear Models to Adaptive, Participatory Practice

Author: Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia

Publisher: NEYA Global Publishing
Journal: NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies
Volume: 1, Issue 1 (2025)
DOI: 10.64357/nea-gjnps-spsimpact2025

https://doi.org/10.64357/nea-gjnps-spsimpact2025

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Abstract

This article critically examines the limitations of traditional, linear strategic planning in non-profit organizations and introduces a shift toward adaptive, participatory practice. It argues that rigid, top-down models often fail in dynamic socio-economic contexts and that sustainable social impact requires a planning approach rooted in flexibility, inclusivity, and continuous learning. Drawing from real-world case studies, the paper proposes a framework where strategic plans are living, iterative documents co-created with stakeholders and regularly adjusted based on contextual changes and feedback loops.

Keywords

Strategic planning; adaptive strategy; participatory approach; non-profit management; stakeholder engagement; iterative evaluation; social impact

Key Topics Covered in the Article

• Critique of linear and static planning models in the non-profit sector
• Principles of adaptive strategic planning
• The role of stakeholder participation in shaping effective strategies
• Building feedback and learning mechanisms into planning cycles
• Using scenario planning to navigate uncertainty

Practical Relevance

For non-profit leaders, practitioners, and policy makers, this article provides actionable insights for transitioning from rigid planning frameworks to adaptable, stakeholder-driven processes. It demonstrates how inclusivity and iterative refinement can increase organizational resilience and deepen social impact outcomes.

Cite this Article

APA:
Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Strategic planning for social impact: From linear models to adaptive, participatory practice. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.64357/nea-gjnps-spsimpact2025

MLA:
Kazanskaia, Anna Neya. "Strategic Planning for Social Impact: From Linear Models to Adaptive, Participatory Practice." NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies, vol. 1, no. 1, 2025. doi:10.64357/nea-gjnps-spsimpact2025.

Chicago (Author–Date):
Kazanskaia, Anna Neya. 2025. "Strategic Planning for Social Impact: From Linear Models to Adaptive, Participatory Practice." NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.64357/nea-gjnps-spsimpact2025.

Harvard:
Kazanskaia, A. N., 2025. Strategic planning for social impact: From linear models to adaptive, participatory practice. NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies, 1(1). Available at: https://doi.org/10.64357/nea-gjnps-spsimpact2025.

IEEE:
A. N. Kazanskaia, "Strategic Planning for Social Impact: From Linear Models to Adaptive, Participatory Practice," NEYA Global Journal of Non-Profit Studies, vol. 1, no. 1, 2025. doi:10.64357/nea-gjnps-spsimpact2025.

About the Author

Dr. Anna Neya Kazanskaia is the founder of NEYA Global and NEYA Global Publishing, with extensive expertise in strategic planning, organizational development, and non-profit sector transformation. Her work bridges academic research and field application, equipping organizations with practical tools for achieving sustainable impact.

References 

Bryson, J. M. (2018). Strategic Planning for Public and Nonprofit Organizations (5th ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Strategic Planning for Social Impact. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/strategic-planning-2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Understanding Strategic Planning in the Non-Profit Sector: Foundations, Functions, and Practices. https://doi.org/10.64357/uspnp-2025

Kazanskaia, A. (2025). Teaching Paper: Strategic Planning Process Checklist.  https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-tp-sppc2025

Kazanskaia, A. (2025). Teaching Paper: Feedback Mechanisms and Tools Enhancing Strategic Planning in Non-Profit Organizations. https://doi.org/10.64357/neya-gjnps-fmt2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Strategic Execution: Turning Vision into Impact. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/strategic-execution-2025

Kazanskaia, A. N. (2025). Monitoring & Evaluation in International Development. NEYA Global Publishing. https://doi.org/10.64357/monitoring-evaluation-international-development-2025

Mintzberg, H. (1994). The Rise and Fall of Strategic Planning. Free Press.

Patton, M. Q. (2010). Developmental Evaluation: Applying Complexity Concepts to Enhance Innovation and Use. Guilford Press.

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