Scanning Continuously

For many funders, scanning is more than just an occasional thing, reserved for periods of strategic planning and reflection. Instead, they see it as a continuous set of activities that help them stay current and alert to opportunities. “In my field,” said a program officer who funds technology, “you simply don’t have the luxury of being behind the curve because you’re going to end up making decisions that are irrelevant to the whole world in which you’re operating.” His statement is equally true in many other areas of grantmaking. Regular scanning can also help maintain a healthy perspective on your own work.