The temptation is to plunge into a proposal writing frenzy, cranking out thousands of words that seem likely to impress a foundation. Surely if you write a spellbinding proposal you’ll snag that grant! Here’s a modest suggestion: put that cart back behind the horse where it belongs. The most important result of the proposal process might not be the final text. Instead, it might be the best exercise you can devise for carrying out thoughtful program planning. Here are five benefits to consider:

• It’s an opportunity to ask yourself if you really want to do the program.

• If you want to do it, now is the time to explore what it will actually take to accomplish the results you’re after.

• If you know what it will take, then you can begin to figure out what it will cost.

• You’ve lined up the need for the work, you’ve identified what it will take and what it will cost.

• Finally, the proposal planning process is often the catalyst for avoiding “oops” moments.

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