TIP: If relevant, do not forget to identify how the opposition, or a competing interest, is positioned. Consider whether counteractions are necessary, particularly where there is activity or outcome overlap. For example, if the opposition has a media strategy, consider potential audience reactions to competing messages and how to frame messages accordingly. TIP: The framework can be a useful tool for looking at how an entire field is positioned on an advocacy issue—where there are gaps in capacity or implementation, and what actions may be necessary to make sure those gaps are filled. 5) How will the strategy look in several years? It can take a long time to achieve a policy goal. Or, a sudden window of opportunity might open that no one could have anticipated, speeding the process along. Successful advocates typically change their strategies over time to meet changing circumstances, such as a shift in elected officials, a shift in public opinion, a crisis, unexpected opposition, or the introduction of related legislation. In addition, strategies may need to occur in phases. For example, first it may be important to make the case using research to document a problem, or to use demonstration programs to document a solution and its effectiveness. The next phase might then involve effective communication of that case to audiences in a position to do something about it. Sequencing the focus of effort and resources over time may be critical. Think ahead to three to five years from now. Consider: • How might possible shifts in the context—political, economic, or social—affect how the strategy is positioned? • Assuming the strategy does not go precisely according to plans, and one or more of the audiences does not respond, how will the strategy adjust in response? TIP: Scenario planning or contingency planning might be a useful exercise at this point. Identify a small number of possible scenarios over the next several years and identify the implications for the strategy if those scenarios play out. For example, how might the strategy need to change in the face of changing control of the legislature or executive branch? How might a significant change in budget affect the issue’s position on the policy agenda? 9