Insights & resources
Decision tools for nonprofits & communities.
Free VMBARS tools for making choices, tradeoffs, and evidence visible. The same core canvases can be used across different fields.
Start here
What should happen after the event so relationships and learning do not disappear?
On your canvas, begin with this step: Define the post-event value to preserve: relationships, learning, stewardship, future participation, and useful content. Then map attendees, honorees, donors, volunteers, staff, board members, partners, and people who could not attend.
See a worked example for this context →VMBARS Working Canvas
Map the people affected, expose tradeoffs, assign ownership, and define the evidence to review.
Download PDF →Decision Quick Scan
Use ten focused questions to find where a consequential decision is still underspecified.
Download PDF →From a blank canvas to a useful test
- Write one decision as a choice, not a broad ambition.
- Name who benefits, who contributes, and who carries the cost.
- Separate what you know from what you need to test.
- Give the next action an owner and a review point.
For stories of these ideas in practice, explore Living VMBARS.