Idea Mode vs. Planning for Reality

You might notice that the details of this week's parsha, Parshat Vayakhel, sound very familiar. That's because many of the details in this week's parsha about the building of the Mishkan

and its furnishings (the ark, the table for showbread, the menorah, etc.) were first detailed just two weeks ago in Parshat Terumah. Perhaps you've heard Ramban's commentary on this repetition, explaining that "...all this repetition in the account of the Tabernacle is a sign of love and distinction, showing that G-d desires the work...."

However, there is a key difference in the two descriptions that can teach us an important lesson for our organizations. Parshat Terumah first tells the instructions of how to make the furnishings and then discusses the Mishkan and Parshat Vayakhel describes the construction in reverse – first the Mishkan and then the furnishings.

While in "idea mode" God starts with what's at the core of the meaning - the Ark of the covenent which contains the tablets. But when the Israelites are actually ready to make it happen, to turn ideas into reality, they first have to start with the foundation and structure, the tents, so that the Ark, Table, and Menorah will have a place to go.

Applying this to our organizations today, it is tempting to jump right into the details, the heart of the ideas, when planning a new program. However, long term success and sustainability are better served by starting with clarifying the goals and mission, outreach for feedback from the target demographic, getting leadership and volunteers in place, and determining a budget and source of funds. By laying this groundwork, organizations can avoid inefficient spending, unclear programming, frustrated volunteers, and lack of participation.

It is crucial to lay a strong and solid foundation so that the core ideas and mission-driven applications have something to build on, increasing the likelihood of success. In our organizations, structure and strategy must go hand-in-hand.