The CCAT: Your customized capacity building plan!

Embarking on a new venture can often feel like an uphill battle. Taking that first crucial step forward, diving in headfirst, getting the ball rolling, or other motivational cliches is easier said than done. Sometimes the struggle remains very real, but the reality is there are some ways to help you recognize the grass is greener on the other side.

We often blame our busy schedules or easily succumb to the allure of social media, attributing these distractions to our inability to make progress. However, in many cases, the real issue lies in not knowing where to begin. Although we have a clear destination in mind, the starting point seems elusive, acting as a barrier to our advancement. Consequently, we often choose the path of least resistance, compounding the challenge.

In the nonprofit sphere, time is invaluable, and maximizing efficiency is crucial to creating a positive impact within our communities. This is where the Core Capacity Assessment Tool (CCAT) comes into play. This online survey tool is specifically designed for nonprofit organizations, requiring only a minimal time commitment from your team. The analysis it provides offers a personalized capacity-building plan, furnishing clear guidance and tailored recommendations, enabling you to take that pivotal first step towards elevating your organization to the next level.

The CCAT is a helpful tool since it can support you in crafting a battle strategy. For example, military strategist and United States Air Force Colonel John Boyd created the OODA (observe, orient, decide, act) loop cycle. We know, you really needed another acronym, but hang in there!

Observe – Collect information to inform you about the situation

Orient – Analyze this information to understand the present context and challenge

Decide – Determine what you are going to do to adjust to situation

Act – Follow through on your decision and implement

When an organization completes the CCAT, they receive a report that is over 20 pages long with an assessment of over 40 key indicators of nonprofit effectiveness ranging from an agencies ability to lead, effectively manage resources, and utilize skills to move the needle — in essence, helping an agency Observe and Orient. When it comes to the Decide and Act of the OODA Cycle, our leadership coaching can prepare organizational leaders to make decisions and follow through. We probably won’t make you drop and give us 20 push-ups, but we will be your cheerleader and accountability buddy by providing you homework to accomplish between sessions.

Please let us know if you would like more information and details about the CCAT and additional coaching. You can visit our website here or reach out to us directly via email at [email protected]. If you prefer, you can also schedule a complimentary strategy session with our team to discuss the CCAT and potential next steps for your organization.