Our approach to the strategic assessment focused on understanding recent changes in Detroit’s civic, community, and economic development landscape, and identifying ways that DRF can address emerging needs. Our research included phone interviews, an online survey, and three focus groups. We engaged a variety of stakeholders including community leaders, current and past fellows and employers as well as program coaches, advisors, and funders. Across our engagements, we explored perceptions of local leadership dynamics, perceptions of the program currently and over time, and ideas for change.

We analyzed the qualitative data we collected from 83 stakeholders. We distilled key findings about Detroit’s leadership landscape and organized them by relevant topics including diversity and inclusion, culture, collaboration, and talent development. We shared a summary of DRF’s perceived strengths and weaknesses as well as opportunities for change. We documented our analysis in a report, executive summary, and presentation deck.

Working in partnership with Public Sector Consultants, DRF used the strategic assessment to reflect on the changing landscape, consider the future that fellows, employers, funders, and partners envisioned, and created a strategic plan to implement changes that will help DRF build that future with their stakeholders.