Diagnostic Scans

The Nonprofit Strategies Diagnostic Scans – a framework to improve the performance of nonprofit organizations and volunteer programs

No two nonprofit organizations are alike.  An effective evaluation must be flexible enough to take those differences into consideration.  The Nonprofit Strategies Diagnostic Scans are the perfect solution!  It goes beyond a paper and pencil exercise. Instead, each scan is conducted via telephone allowing the evaluator to probe deeper than possible with self-assessments.  The entire scan can be accomplished during a one-hour telephone calls.  At the completion of each scan, “GAPS” will be identified and solutions and ideas for closing the “GAP” will be presented.

When should I conduct a diagnostic scan?

For nonprofit organizations …..

  • As part of strategic planning
  • There is an increase or change in client needs
  • Need to hire or downsize staff
  • Before a reorganization

For volunteer programs ……

  • When determining if there is a sound infrastructure
  • Before an expansion of the program or to multiple volunteer sites
  • Assessing the reasons for high volunteer turnover

What can I expect?

  • An interactive inquiry to assess the key areas of your organization or volunteer program
  • A focused assessment of current strengths and possible deficiencies lurking under the surface
  • A team of evaluators with input from three nonprofit professionals for each scan
  • A thorough, candid report that will pinpoint a variety of ideas, methods, and processes to help close the “GAP” and eliminate deficiencies 

I’m ready.  Where do I begin?

  • Step 1:  Register for a scan. During the registration process you will be asked to complete a survey that will provide the evaluation team with a “picture” of your organization or volunteer program.
  • Step 2: Once your registration is received, an evaluator will contact you to schedule the scan.  The Nonprofit Organization Diagnostic Scan is conducted twice, once with the Board Chair and another with the Executive Director. The Volunteer Program Scan is conducted with the Manager of Volunteer Resources or similar person who is in charge of the program.
  • Step 3:  The results of the scan are evaluated by the Nonprofit Strategies Team. An evaluation report will be prepared that outlines (a) what elements are doing well with recommendations to enhance those elements; (b) what elements require change with recommendations for accomplishing the change and (c) what elements are essential but not existing at the organization. Where appropriate, the recommendations will include a list of resources.
  • Step 4:  Once the evaluation report has been reviewed by the organization we will telephone one more time to review the results and answer any questions you might have.