How to Make a Difference

If you have a cause you are passionate about, or a problem you want to solve to make the world a better place, this Checklist for Change can help with information to outline a plan for change.

I developed the Printable Checklist for Change (pdf) after I heard about the How To Start a Revolution Webinar created by Jonathan Fields. Scott Dinsmore at Live Your Legend describes the webinar in his article 18 Field-Tested Steps to Launching a Non-Violent Revolution. The Daily PlanIt Change Toolkit provides links to tools for the steps and  includes a Change Outline.

CHECKLIST FOR CHANGE

CLARIFY THE IDEA

• Choose a name that describes what the idea is about.
• Describe the primary purpose. What is it for, how does it work, what are the features?
• Identify the Value Proposition. What are the unique benefits offered?
• Identify the Pain Point? What problem is solved?

COMMUNICATE

Clear and compelling communication of the idea is essential to get the message out, reach people who care and get them involved. Start by giving some thought to develop a brand to use for marketing.

• Choose images and colors that best convey the idea.
• Choose a song that conveys the idea.
• Make a Manifesto of the core values.
• Think of a story that captures emotions. What inspired your idea?
• Think of a slogan or tagline. Why do you want to solve the problem, what would you put on a tshirt?
• Create a compelling, convincing video or presentation to pitch the idea.

TEST ASSUMPTIONS

• Research to find statistics that support the need for the idea.
• Run surveys or focus groups to discover if there is really a need or desire.
• Test the effectiveness of the branding for communicating the message.
• Choose the metrics you will use to measure success. What will success look like?

BUILD COMMUNITY

• Identify the target market or audience. Who are you serving and who will help? Where will you find them?
• Choose the channels you will use. How will you reach people? A blog, social media, videos, meetings, newsletters? Will you sell products that tie in: books, courses, tshirts?
• Develop tools to help spread the word and form groups to support the idea.
• Look for a group of energetic core leaders who can present ideas well. Gain input from early adopters and true believers. Put out a call to action and form a leadership team.

SUSTAINABILITY

• Decide on for profit or nonprofit status. Do you want to raise money?
• Identify the costs that will be involved. What resources will be needed to provide this?
• Identify sources of income to pay for costs. Will you sell tshirts or other products?
• Think of possible partnerships. Are there existing groups or organizations that could be a good fit? What are the benefits of connecting with them?
• Research the competition. Who are they, and what are their strengths & weaknesses?

LAUNCH

Build a launch around an event, a manifesto, a video, or a webinar.

GROW

Continue to build community.

Find tools for change at the Change Toolkit.

About dailyplanit

I seek to create order from the chaos of complex information. Join me at the Daily PlanIt to gain insights, inspiration, and information to increase skills for a better life. I unlock the power of teaching reading with phonics in the pursuit of literacy at www.phonicspow.com. In my spare time I explore books and movies, often choosing titles available on both screen and page.