Your organisation basics

Whether your organisation is just getting started, is just one person, has a turnover of less than £1m per year or has been established for a hundred years, has an international remit, working with thousands of volunteers there will be issues and challenges that face you everyday.

Keeping an organisation going is hard work. From introducing an IT system to planning your next five years there is always lots to do. There are also the unexpected challenges such as surviving the recession, dealing with theft or increased demand for your services.

Where do you start? Often organisations approach consultants or their local CVS with questions about fundraising or marketing when really they need to take a step back, assess who they are and where they are going. Fundamentally an organisation should have a strong, well-thought out strategy or business plan at its heart. Take a look at the strategy section for more information.

Are you doing it right?

Check out the Tools for Success: self-assessment toolkit to see whether your organisation has got what it takes to be sustainable.

Useful links

• Small Charities Coalition - get support from other small and large charities.

Have your say

Got a particular problem / question or experience that you have learnt from? Have a look at the forums in this section and get talking!

Why not share your knowledge and experience by helping us develop this section. Contact knowhow@city.ac.uk for more information.