Regardless of what initiated OEA support (BRAC, growth, Defense Industry Adjustment, compatible use), OEA staff, through years of working with communities, have identified the following keys to success:
Proper Organization
A single representative organization is paramount. Bring the stakeholders together throughout the process, from the conceptual visioning stage through short- and long-term planning, job creation, and economic stabilization.
Diverse & Committed Leadership
Public and private sector leaders must work together to provide continuing priority support to adjustment efforts.
Comprehensive Strategy
These situations enable a community to make significant changes. This challenge requires a strategy that broadly addresses change and encompasses community needs.
Consensus
Stakeholder acceptance of plans helps avoid the contentious issues that may delay action.
Implementation
Follow through on the recommendations developed by community leaders after consensus is reached.
Realistic Marketing
Every community has opportunities. The trick is to use sound business analysis to find those that have the most potential.
Patience
Positive change cannot occur overnight. Regardless of the type of community transformation, it can take years to fully realize plans.
Government Support
Leverage the guidance, technical assistance, and financial resources available through OEA and all levels of government to help plan and implement strategies.
