The United Methodist Church has put together an online tutorial to help churches create a marketing plan. It’s a seriously-involved, 5-step effort that includes homework with PDF downloads, action steps and a worksheet to fill out your marketing plan. It starts with with values and vision and ends with ongoing evaluation and adjustment to make sure your plan is working.
This is a meaty resource, ideal for any church that wants to get serious about marketing (and no, you don’t have to be Methodist). The biggest downside is that it’s entirely online, so you’re on your own. There are lots of resources and downloadable helps, but not everything is completely explained and if you’re left scratching your head, you’re out of luck (though you could always seek help in the Church Marketing Lab). But it looks like a good (and free) way to get started with a marketing plan.
Check out the overview of the tutorial and consider using it for your church.
Alan Young
November 16, 2009
I just found this site and I think it is awesome! Just wanted to share a new site I am putting together with you guys cause I think you’ll like the name :)
http://www.sinsucks.com
It’s basically gonna be about How awesome God is and Why Sin Sucks!
I am going to share this site with several of my pastor friends for sure.
Thanks!
Poonam
December 10, 2009
Hello,
First of all, thanks for writing about this resource. We appreciate the word. I do want to add this though that help is provided at various stages, including customized demographics reports for United Methodist churches. There is also an email address listed on the site, to which users can send any question as they create this plan and they will receive a response.
And by the way, I work for United Methodist Communications and was involved in creation of this resource.
Thanks again, Poonam
Poonam
December 10, 2009
And we are also working on developing some training modules for this series, both online and face to face. So more help is on its way. And it is Poonam again.
Steve Johnston
December 13, 2009
What an in depth resource! Any church that takes the time to go through this process is really committed to growing.
Chris Yaw
June 1, 2011
Great article! Wish more churches were involved in this – our company http://www.holy swag.com helps once churches have been able to create their message – and to shine their light
Keith Adams
September 12, 2013
I am glad I was able to come across your site. It help me complete my marketing plan for our church site.