Research Strategic Planning

HI engaged ECG to develop a strategic plan to position itself for future success by identifying scientific areas of growth. Leadership wanted the process to be holistic, with ample input from employees, partner organizations, and community members. The objective was to create a strategic plan that was both aspirational and implementable, accounting for HI’s capabilities, resources, and organizational goals. 

ECG interviewed stakeholders throughout the institute and its affiliates, including Hormel Foods Corporation; UMN; the Hormel Foundation; Mayo Clinic; and local area organizations, such as Riverland Community College and the Austin County Public School administration. Additionally, we evaluated industry and market-level trends in research, funding, and strategic partnerships and conducted a thorough data review to establish an understanding of HI’s current state.

Our team then facilitated a strategic planning retreat to identify the plan’s high-priority goals and focus areas. The retreat led to the establishment of four work groups charged with brainstorming and refining supporting strategies and tactics to enable HI to achieve its goals. A community forum was held for internal and external stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft strategies prior to finalizing the strategic plan.

The finalized strategic plan includes 11 key strategies and supporting tactics to guide HI into the future. The accompanying implementation plan provides a roadmap for the institute as it pursues tactics for year one and beyond, and includes 10 global metrics on which to measure progress toward the institute’s goals. The goals center on:

• Driving high-quality, high-impact research.
• Promoting team science.
• Supporting community engagement.
• Recruiting and retaining high-performing personnel.

Through the strategic plan, HI is poised to diversify its focus, strengthen its research portfolio, and become an integral part of the Mower County community.