Strategic planning can be one of the most powerful tools for mission-driven organizations — when it’s done right. But all too often, plans fall flat, get forgotten, or fail to guide real progress. At HDW Consulting , we’ve worked with dozens of nonprofits, coalitions, and social enterprises to create strategic plans that don’t just sit on a shelf. Here are five common pitfalls to watch out for, and how to avoid them. Pitfall 1: Planning in a Vacuum Too many plans are created