The Network Development Division (NDD) of the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) faced the challenge of aligning its services and operations with the broader goals of the DBH. The division needed a clear strategic roadmap to transition from a reactive, crisis-management approach to a more proactive, prevention-oriented strategy. This shift was essential for NDD to better support service providers, enhance the quality of care, and ultimately improve behavioral health outcomes for District residents.

The DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) provides comprehensive mental health services to residents of the District of Columbia. The Network Development Division (NDD) plays a crucial role in ensuring that these services are delivered effectively by working closely with various service providers across the city. However, the division had historically focused on addressing immediate crises rather than long-term systemic improvements. To better fulfill its mission, NDD required a strategic plan that would guide it toward a more sustainable, quality-driven model of service delivery.

Symphonic Strategies was engaged to develop a comprehensive Strategic Road Map for the NDD. Our approach was centered on creating a detailed, actionable plan that would guide the division through a transformation process. This process involved identifying key landmarks and pathways that NDD would follow to achieve its long-term vision of making prevention possible and recovery the expectation for all District residents.

The Strategic Road Map was developed through a series of steps that engaged NDD staff and other key stakeholders in the planning process:

1. Vision and Goal Setting: We began by working with NDD leadership to establish a clear vision for the division. This vision was encapsulated in the idea of creating a thriving community in DC where behavioral health prevention is possible, and recovery from mental health and substance use disorders is the expectation.

2. Road Mapping Design Labs: We facilitated a series of design labs that engaged NDD staff in identifying the key pathways and actions needed to achieve this vision. These sessions focused on aligning all parts of DBH, ensuring that everyone was moving in the right direction and supporting each other as they progressed.

3. Identification of Key Pathways: Three primary pathways were identified: Training and Education, Technical Assistance and Organization Development, and Mutually Beneficial Public-Private Partnerships. These pathways were prioritized to ensure that NDD could effectively transition from its current state to its desired future.

4. Development of Landmarks: We established five key landmarks that would serve as indicators of progress toward the ultimate destination. These included establishing consistent and reliable liaisons within DBH, fostering strong partnerships with service providers, and ensuring that high-quality behavioral health care is available and accessible to all District residents.

5. Resource Allocation and Action Steps: The Road Map detailed the resources required to fuel this journey, including a customer-focused mindset, real-time performance data, and clear policies and guidelines. We also provided specific action steps that NDD would need to take to reach each landmark.

The Strategic Road Map developed by Symphonic Strategies provided the NDD with a clear, actionable plan to guide its transformation. Key outcomes included:

- Improved Alignment and Focus: NDD staff gained a clear understanding of their roles and how they contributed to the overall mission of DBH. This alignment improved operational efficiency and focus.

- Enhanced Service Provider Relationships: By establishing clear standards of practice and offering robust technical assistance, NDD strengthened its partnerships with service providers, leading to higher quality care for residents.

- Proactive Service Delivery: The roadmap shifted NDD’s focus from reactive crisis management to proactive service delivery, improving long-term outcomes for those receiving behavioral health services in DC.

The success of the Strategic Road Map underscores the importance of clear, actionable planning in transforming organizational operations. By focusing on alignment, proactive strategies, and stakeholder engagement, Symphonic Strategies enabled NDD to take significant steps toward its vision of a thriving, healthy community.

Is your organization ready to transform its operations and achieve its strategic goals? Symphonic Strategies can help you develop a comprehensive roadmap to guide your journey. Contact us today to learn how we can support your strategic planning needs.