The USDA Office of Inspector General (OIG) needed to align its strategic goals with enterprise risk management (ERM) and performance measurement systems in order to better track progress and fulfill its reporting responsibilities to Congress. The organization sought a framework that could translate strategy into daily operations while fostering sustainable, repeatable planning practices.

In late 2024, Symphonic Strategies was awarded a contract to support the development and implementation of a Strategic Plan Implementation Framework for USDA OIG’s 2025–2029 strategic cycle. The agency faced internal challenges with coordination, accountability, and performance tracking, all of which were compounded by the complexity of its mission and the diversity of its divisions. The engagement aimed to enhance alignment, integrate ERM, and build internal capacity to manage future strategic planning cycles with consistency and clarity.

Symphonic brought a collaborative, systems-thinking approach to the engagement, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder input and organizational dynamics. We developed a detailed Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) that outlined key phases—including documentation of current processes, performance measurement pilots, and risk integration strategies. Our plan emphasized not only delivery of technical tools but also organizational learning and capacity building to ensure long-term impact.

The project launched with a series of stakeholder interviews and weekly meetings to understand USDA OIG’s internal landscape. Monthly progress reviews and deliverables kept the agency informed and engaged. Our team:

1. Documented the current strategic planning framework and identified opportunities for alignment

2. Developed draft performance measures for FY2025

3. Designed a structure for integrating ERM into the strategic planning and implementation process

4. Initiated a training and knowledge transfer plan to build internal capability

Unfortunately, the project concluded earlier than anticipated due to federal budget cuts that led to contract cancellation. Despite this, foundational components of the framework were successfully completed and delivered.

Established a Cohesive, Actionable Framework Connecting Strategy to Daily Operations

The new framework translated OIG’s strategic goals into measurable, actionable steps with defined responsibilities, timelines, and success indicators.

Integrated Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) and Performance Measures into Organizational Culture

Risk and performance were no longer treated as separate functions but embedded directly into planning, operations, and reporting cycles.

Enabled Sustainable Change Through Capacity Building and Structured Training Plan

A comprehensive training roadmap was developed to support implementation, knowledge transfer, and long-term sustainability.

1. Strategic planning in federal agencies must be grounded in both performance and risk to remain effective and credible.

2. Capacity building and internal ownership are as critical as frameworks and tools for sustainable success.

3. Even in shortened engagements, significant progress can be made through early stakeholder alignment and structured implementation planning.

4. The ability to pivot and adapt to external disruptions is key in the public sector—and foundational work still delivers long-term value.

Is your organization ready to align strategy, performance, and risk? Partner with Symphonic Strategies to build a strategic framework that turns vision into action, integrates accountability, and delivers measurable results. Contact us today to learn how we can help you design a smarter path forward.