Non-Profit Scope Creep: Are You Misusing Your Mission Statement?

A great mission statement is the cornerstone of any successful non-profit organization(NPO). It succinctly encapsulates the core purpose - the "why we exist", the values, and goals of the organization, serving as a guiding star for all activities and decisions. When used with discipline, a mission statement can effectively address and mitigate scope creep—a common challenge for NPOs.

When I was on the board at Pratidhwani, Seattle's largest South Asian organization for performing arts, we faced an interesting situation. The manager of a famous Indian classical dancer, skilled in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, reached out to collaborate with us on the Seattle circuit of her tour. Any organization would have leapt at the opportunity. However, Pratidhwani's mission for over two decades has been:

To create performing opportunities for local South Asian artists

Partnering with her would probably have created more brand visibility for us. But it would not have furthered the mission statement of the organization. Applying that lens, we declined the offer. However, applying the same filter of the mission statement, we have funded visiting tabla maestros who ran workshops for local artists, and even non-South Asian artists who play South Asian instruments.

I have seen many enthusiastic leaders of non-profits jump into every new initiative, out of their general greatness of their hearts to do more. However,

Here's how:

1. Clarity and Focus

A well-crafted mission statement provides clarity and focus, clearly defining the organization's primary objectives. This focus helps team members understand the organization's core priorities and resist the temptation to take on projects or activities that fall outside of these priorities. For example, if an NPO's mission is to provide educational resources to underprivileged children, it will be easier to decline unrelated initiatives, such as health services, that may dilute its resources and efforts.

2. Decision-Making Framework

A strong mission statement serves as a decision-making framework. When faced with new opportunities or challenges, leaders and team members can refer back to the mission statement to determine if the proposed action aligns with the organization's goals. This ensures that every decision contributes to the mission, preventing the adoption of projects that could lead to scope creep. For instance, before launching a new program, the team can ask, "Does this initiative align with our mission to improve educational access?"

3. Resource Allocation

Disciplined adherence to the mission statement aids in effective resource allocation. By staying true to the mission, NPOs can allocate their limited resources—time, money, personnel—more efficiently and strategically. This prevents overextension into areas that do not directly support the mission, thus avoiding scope creep. For example, fundraising efforts can be directed toward projects that have the most significant impact on the mission rather than dispersed across unrelated activities.

4. Stakeholder Alignment

A clear mission statement ensures that all stakeholders—board members, employees, volunteers, donors, and beneficiaries—are aligned in their understanding of the organization's purpose. This alignment helps manage expectations and keeps everyone on the same page regarding what the organization does and does not do. When stakeholders understand and support the mission, they are less likely to propose or endorse initiatives that could lead to scope creep.

5. Accountability and Measurement

A great mission statement provides a basis for accountability and measurement. It sets the standard against which the organization's activities and outcomes can be evaluated. Regularly revisiting the mission statement during strategic planning and performance reviews helps ensure that the organization stays on track. By measuring progress against the mission, NPOs can identify and address any deviations that indicate scope creep.

6. Communication and Branding

Consistent use of the mission statement in communication and branding reinforces the organization's identity and purpose to external audiences. This consistency helps manage external expectations and reduces the likelihood of pressure to take on projects outside the mission's scope. For instance, clear communication about the mission helps donors understand what their contributions will support, reducing the chances of receiving funding for unrelated projects.