In March 2011, Ascendant completed our first ever strategy management survey, the purpose of which was to learn about the management practices of mission-driven organizations. We asked respondents questions such as how well they thought their organizations were performing, what tools they are using to help manage their performance, and what their greatest challenges are.

We solicited survey respondents via press releases, web postings, and emails to our clients and 2011 Mission-Driven Performance Summit attendees. We received 85 responses from a broad mix of sectors including education, government, non-profits, and commercial industry. Most respondents were American based and have been in existence for over 20 years.

I have been asked about strategy review meetings on a more frequent basis. The most recent one was "Tell me about the best strategy review meeting you have seen. Why was it so good?" It got me thinking that there are multiple ways to conduct a strategy review meeting: Review objectives that are off track, review everything, review by theme, and review just one objective. In this blog, I'll focus on reviewing items that are off track.

A few weeks ago, we hosted "Managing for Performance," which focused on how performance management can help districts optimize the performance of their central office, school zones, and classrooms. Hosted in partnership with the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation and the District of Columbia Public Schools, the event convened districts from around the country on the critical topic of performance management.

Our photographer has finished her work and this year's pictures are ready to view!