Message from AHVAP Treasurer

The Board of Directors (BOD) plays a crucial role in developing an organization's strategic plan. This process is critical for success, and it involves assessing strengths and weaknesses, identifying opportunities, and mitigating threats to achieve long-term goals. AHVAP's BOD recently participated in this yearly exercise, and it started with an essential step: SWOT analysis.

SWOT is an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. A SWOT analysis evaluates an organization's current position and its potential for growth. It helps identify strengths and weaknesses and the opportunities and threats an organization may face. The process involves collecting and analyzing data to make informed decisions about the future. By developing AHVAP's strategic plan based on the SWOT analysis, we can ensure focus is on the right priorities, and there is a clear roadmap for achieving our goals. Ultimately, the plan we create will be realistic, actionable, and measurable.

During this exercise, I was reminded how invaluable this exercise is not only from an organizational level but from an individual level. The process is highly adaptable to both professional and even personal development. While a SWOT analysis seems straightforward, it can be rather intense. You must be open and honest and allow yourself to be vulnerable. It is important to remember that creating your own SWOT analysis is a personal endeavor, and you do not have to share it with anyone. Consider building this exercise into your regular practice; you can then take what you glean from this exercise and author your strategic plan.  

Sincerely,

Anne Marie Orlando, MBA, RN, RCIS, CVAHP™
Treasurer, Board of Directors
AHVAP