Strategic Planning and Alignment that Works

Methods: Consultation, Training
Topics: Demand-Driven, One-Stops, Organizational Development

As with many workforce areas across the country, the Lower Rio Grande area of Texas is characterized by extremes: both very rural and urban communities; with areas of economic growth along with pockets of poverty. In addition, the workforce area covers a large geographical region. These conditions present many workforce development challenges to the local board. To be successful, members envisioned a strategy that links workforce development more closely with economic development, and ensures demand-driven alignment of all policies and services.

With Greg Newton's expertise and facilitation, the Board first addressed strategic planning. Guided by collection and analysis of relevant workforce intelligence, the Board targeted industries critical to the region's economy; prioritized their human resource challenges; and identified demand occupations and skills. This was followed by an alignment audit to establish focal areas for advancement and improvement; and then implementation of activities acutely targeted to specific outcomes. Featured in these are (1) investment and operational polices that are aligned with and support the strategy; (2) an integrated service delivery model that is based on ten integration principles - and responds aptly to demand; and (3) completion of a successful front-line staff training that instituted the changes.

Today, the Lower Rio Grande Workforce Development Board is widely recognized for its strategic planning and implementation process, and--more importantly--for reinvention outcomes that feature improved performance and stronger partnerships and strategic alliances with critical community leaders, businesses, and resources.

"Greg has been such a part of our vision development and implementation that we do not think of him as our consultant, but as one of us! Both staff and Board members rely on his perspective and guidance for our continued success!"

Yvonne "Bonnie" Gonzalez
CEO, WorkFORCE Solutions
Lower Rio Grande Workforce Development Board

Contact: Bonnie Gonzalez, CEO, workFORCE Solutions, Lower Rio Grande Workforce Development Board, 956-928-5000

Lead Consultant: Greg Newton

Related Training: Demand Driven Leadership, Six Steps to Demand Driven Systems, Workforce Development Leadership: Aligning for Action and Achievement