Apr 10, 2015

The Triad Model of the Charity Business Part 2

(Here is The Triad Model Part 1)

As I discussed, the three aspects (thus The Triad) of Activity, Participation and Marketing are basic pillars to a strong, successful and self-sustaining non-profit. 

Self-sustaining is the most important point, as each aspect supports and contributes to the other two aspects. The diagram shows how it works out: (insert diagram)

Most non-profits focus only on the Activity, focusing on delivering their final product. This means successfully delivering aid, or holding an exhitbition to achieve awareness. They are limiting themselves by lacking a bigger picture, or an "extended goal" beyond their original goal. 

What if organisations extended their work beyond the Activity aspect to include the other two aspects? Volunteer management is introduced (Participation aspect), drawing them to feel like they are part of the team, reinforcing that their efforts make a difference. We then see the formation of a solid base of volunteers who believe that they have a stake in the organisation's work. The organisations work begin to outperform past years as passion fuels the activities. The successes begin to make the organisation an attractive place for would-be volunteers. A virtuous cycle is formed.

Furthermore, through purposeful promotion of the company (the Marketing aspect), the public starts to be aware of the organisation and its work. The improved reputation not only helps gather public support, and opens up more opportunities for partnerships and sponsorships. The extra support and financing could mean more good can be done for beneficiaries. Another virtuous cycle is formed.

Of course, each aspect demands more discussion than the brief introduction I have made here. I have only made two examples of how two more focuses could support organisations' work, while there's more how each aspect can produce virtuous cycles with its counterparts. Ultimately, the Traid creates a self-sustaining synergy for the organisation, both internally and externally.