Too many ideas, not enough clarity? Here’s a way forward.
Ideas emerge in purpose-led organisations all the time—through day-to-day problem-solving, team discussions, and strategic planning sessions. The challenge? Knowing which ones are worth pursuing.
But not every idea is the right one. For purpose-led organisations, the stakes are even higher—the best ideas must create real impact while also being financially sustainable. Striking that balance is where the real work begins.
That’s why I developed the Strategic Idea Assessment Tool—a simple framework to help you evaluate new revenue or income diversification opportunities through both a social impact and financial sustainability lens. It’s designed to help you focus on ideas that are both impactful and achievable—rather than chasing possibilities that don’t quite stack up.
Strategic Idea Assessment Tool
Instructions: Use this tool to evaluate new ideas for growing revenue and/or diversifying income for your purpose-led organisation. Answer the questions below for each idea, then use the rating table to score and compare options. This will help you determine which ideas are worth pursuing based on their impact, financial sustainability, and feasibility.
Step 1: Define the Potential Value and Assess the Ease of Implementation
Social Impact
How well does this idea align with our core purpose and mission?
What measurable social or environmental outcomes would it achieve?
Does it serve our key stakeholders or beneficiaries effectively?
Does this idea align with our existing programs, partnerships, and long-term goals?
Market Potential
What is the demand for this product or service? Can we quantify the potential market?
Who are the key competitors, and how does this idea compare?
What industry trends or other external factors do we need to consider?
What is the potential for revenue generation and long-term financial sustainability?
Capabilities & Resources
Do we currently have the skills and expertise needed to deliver this idea?
Would we need to develop new capabilities, hire staff, or undertake training?
Are there partnerships we could leverage to make implementation easier?
Financial & Operational Feasibility
What are the estimated costs of developing and launching this idea?
What are the ongoing operational costs?
What financial risks or barriers might we face?
What infrastructure, equipment, or systems are needed to support this idea?
Scalability & Sustainability
If successful, can this idea grow without excessive additional cost or complexity?
Will it require ongoing funding, or can it sustain itself long-term?
Urgency vs. Opportunity Cost
Is now the right time to pursue this idea?
Will pursuing this idea take resources away from something more impactful, or stretch our organisation too thin?
Step 2: Rate Each Idea
Once you’ve considered these key factors, the next step is to compare your options in a structured way.
The Strategic Idea Assessment Tool includes a simple rating table to help you score and prioritise ideas based on their feasibility, impact, and long-term sustainability.