Purpose & Strategic Importance
Some National Societies choose to involve external support in their strategic planning process. This can add value when internal capacity is limited or when neutral facilitation is useful. However, ownership of the process must remain firmly with the National Society.
Activities & Decisions
What is the role of External Supporter?
- Advising – provide technical input, methods, or comparative experience.
- Facilitating – help run consultations or workshops in a neutral way.
- Supporting – draft materials based on the input of the coordination team, or assist with specific tasks like data analysis.
Implementation Notes
Good practice
- Define clear terms of reference for any consultant or external partner.
- Ensure their role is supportive, not directive. They should not set priorities or write the strategy independently.
- Where possible, draw on peer National Societies or Movement partners for practical “how to” knowledge.
- Keep the process led internally, with governance and management visibly in charge.
Using consultants wisely
A consultant was contracted with terms of reference covering all the phases of the strategic plan. The consultant mostly worked alone and, lacking knowledge of our country and context, made proposals that were not adapted to our reality. After their work, we had to largely revise and adapt the plan to our situation. — Director of Programs, Central African Red Cross
This example highlights the importance of:
- Supervising consultants closely.
- Ensuring they have knowledge of the Red Cross Red Crescent context.
- Keeping leadership and coordination teams engaged at all stages.
Examples & Learning
Central African Red Cross
“A consultant was contracted with terms of reference covering all the phases of the strategic plan. The consultant mostly worked alone and, lacking knowledge of our country and context, made proposals that were not adapted to our reality. After their work, we had to largely revise and adapt the plan to our situation.”
— Director of Programs, Central African Red Cross
Syrian Arab Red Crescent
“When we developed our first strategic plan, we worked with a consultant who had limited knowledge about the Movement. While they identified some strategic challenges, they did not help us to figure out how to address strategic issues in line with our vision and mission.”
— Performance and Partnerships Support Director, Syrian Arab Red Crescent
See also: Overseeing with governance structures and Shaping a fit-for-purpose process.
