The Freedom of a Framework

Twenty years ago this week, I graduated from Gordon College. While the college has undergone a few (unfortunate) iterations since 2005, at the time my wife, Lindsey, and I attended, Gordon had a motto: Freedom within a Framework of Faith. This was pre-polarization and ultra-politicization of the Christian faith in America, and so as a small Christian liberal arts school, the motto guided professors and students across disciplines. It invited questions, conversations, and dialogue among individuals from vastly different backgrounds. The presence of an established framework (a shared faith at the most macro of levels) allowed for freedom of different interpretations of that faith on a personal level without judgement or fear. It was, for me, liberating rather than confining as I wrestled with my own beliefs as a young adult. 

From that experience, I came to better understand the power of having a framework in place for all aspects of institutional strategy, messaging, and community building. A clear, established framework of thought, process, and language unlocks organizational potential and directs creativity. Regardless of whether a framework is in place for an overarching communication plan, the stewardship of a major gift, a fundraising campaign, or strategic direction of an organization, it keeps the core competency at the heart of what the organization does, while limiting missional distractions.  

Organizations are filled with “dreamers”, creative individuals who know their communities well, have amazing ideas, and desire to drive their organization forward, but are challenged to formulate and execute a sequential plan. Organizations also have “doers” who can masterfully execute a plan once it is in place, but struggle to imagine a different future than that which exists. If you peel back the layers within a team or organization, you will likely find the root of most frustrations reside at the intersection of dreamers and doers trying to navigate without a clear framework in place. 

It takes a unique skill set from an individual (or group of individuals) within an organization to understand when and how to implement a framework that feels organic and not forced. However, when a clear framework is established prior to launching a project or key discussion, the superpowers of both dreamers and doers are unlocked. The dreamers can unleash their creativity in a productive manner, and the doers can see a clear path to execution. 

Today, I consistently find myself pausing conversations with colleagues by saying, “framework first...”, not to slow down progress, but to accelerate it. I encourage you to do the same with your team and colleagues. Well-defined structures will free us in our strategic work.