This is the second in a three-part series that explains the Nonprofit Alignment Pyramid. If you missed it, see our overview of what the model involves here. You can see Part 1 here.

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The Nonprofit Alignment Pyramid is part of the Civicus Alignment and Risk Assessment model that we use with our clients. The model is built upon sound research, which we have conducted ourselves, and nonprofit industry best practices.

We assess the nonprofit in 10 different categories and use more than 100 touch points. This kind of thorough assessment gives you a very in-depth look at exactly what is happening at your nonprofit and how you can be a more effective leader. It shows you where and how you can improve, so your efforts will be organized and strategic.

The 10 categories we research make up the Nonprofit Alignment Pyramid.

But, the pyramid can also be divided into three more general categories, designating who is responsible for what in the success of a nonprofit.

Shared Responsibility

In part one of this series, we discussed the board responsibilities (clarity and governance) of the pyramid. In this post, we’ll cover the responsibilities that are shared by staff leadership and the board of directors: infrastructure and accountability.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure includes the systems that help the organization operate smoothly, which are a:

• sound human resources system,
• transparent financial system, and an
• adequate information technology system.

Elements of a sound HR system include processes for evaluation, corrective action, termination procedures, training, hiring, and team building, among other things.

In any organization, finances must comply with generally accepted accounting procedures. However, in a nonprofit, where public trust is paramount, solid fiscal processes, procedures, policies, and habits are extraordinarily necessary.

An adequate IT system must include computer systems, telecomm, training, and productivity processes.

Accountability

In truly aligned and successful organizations, all levels of the organization experience high accountability—from the board of directors, to professional leadership, to staff, and finally to volunteers.

Developing a culture of accountability takes time, and things like an adequate structure, HR systems, and commitment to mission will help you cultivate it.

When the board of directors and staff leadership work in conjunction with each other to ensure infrastructure and accountability are in place, an organization can truly thrive.

You can learn more about the Nonprofit Alignment Pyramid in our free ebook: Nonprofit Organizational Alignment: An Overview.