Strategic Planning in the Arts: A Practical Guide

Name: Strategic Planning in the Arts: A Practical Guide
Rating: 4.7 (23 reviews)

by: Michael M. Kaiser (0)

Planning today is more important than ever. Both acquisition and allocation of resources are increasingly difficult for arts organizations as a result of emerging technologies, reduced arts education, aging donors, and the advent of new forms of entertainment. It is essential for arts organizations to take a coherent approach to these issues to remain vibrant over time. In fact, most arts organizations do periodically attempt some kind of planning exercise. But a review of hundreds of such plans suggests that most contain merely a wish list, rather than concrete plans for the future: “We will increase ticket sales!” is a common “strategy” expressed in too many arts plans. In the absence of details about how ticket sales will be increased, it’s an empty promise. In Strategic Planning in the Arts, Michael M. Kaiser, the former head of the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, and an arts management guru, has produced a clear, concise guide for staff or board members of not-for-profit arts organizations who are responsible for developing, evaluating, or implementing plans. Relying on real-world cases and examples, Kaiser shows how to conceive, assess, and act on every part of the strategic plan, from the mission statement to the financial statement; from managing the board to marketing. Praise for Michael Kaiser: “A rich yet tidy cornucopia of solutions for the challenges facing the American arts scene.”―Washington Post

The Reviews

This is a great starter guide for strategic planning in arts organizations.

This book was exceedingly helpful. To my knowledge, It is the best no nonsense advice as to how an arts organization should formulate an effective strategic plan.

Kaiser is an expert on turning aroung failing community based arts/music/dance companies. All his books on this topic, and there are many, are excellent.....except when it comes to symphony orchestras and their decline and death. He never once mentions the obvious:Symphonies don't play what people will pay to hear....i.e. the greatest works from the greatest composers!Ask your friends who no longer go to the symphony. The vast majority simply have no interest in hearing obscure composers and "commissioned works".

It is helping with a project.

Great book

What’s the point?