Connecting public-policy insight with practical strategy for communities, organizations, and institutions.
Choose the starting point that fits your needs. Our practices connect research and education with organizational strategy and implementation.
Research • Education • Policy Solutions
Research, white papers, policy briefings, civic education, and leadership training that help people understand public challenges and make informed decisions.
Explore Policy InnovationConsulting • Strategy • Government Relations
Advisory support for municipalities, associations, nonprofits, and businesses navigating organizational priorities, stakeholder relationships, and public institutions.
Explore Strategic SolutionsFive connected areas of practice.
One commitment to stronger communities.
Evidence that informs better decisions.
Turning complex challenges into actionable strategies.
Connecting policy, institutions, and community priorities.
Strengthening the capacity of those entrusted to lead.
Building informed, engaged communities.
Effective policy requires more than good intentions. It takes evidence, capable leadership, meaningful community engagement, and an understanding of how decisions translate into everyday outcomes.
LMJ connects research and practical strategy to help organizations make better decisions—and build stronger communities.
Focused frameworks that connect people, evidence, and action. Explore three flagship solutions built around the challenges public leaders face.
Understand whose voice is missing, compare organizational intent with community experience, and build pathways to meaningful participation.
Explore Community EngagementTurn assertions into clear questions, weigh evidence in context, and make public decisions with measurable outcomes.
Explore Data-Driven Decision MakingBuild the evidence, partner commitments, and funding roadmap needed to advance a shared public priority.
Explore Funding Strategy & Regional CollaborationIntroducing the LMJ Board Governance Academy: a one-day certificate retreat, introductory workshops, chair and officer development, customized board retreats, and governance advisory support.
Separate tracks for nonprofit and community organizations; associations and membership organizations; and public boards, authorities, and commissions.
Explore the Board Governance AcademyA shared approach for LMJ’s growing suite of tools, training, and consulting solutions—from understanding a challenge to learning from its results.
Understand the people, priorities, and perspectives affected.
Examine evidence, options, tradeoffs, and local context.
Choose a defensible course tied to public objectives.
Assign ownership, resources, and practical next steps.
Track outcomes, learn, and adjust the approach.
ENGAGE → ANALYZE → DECIDE → IMPLEMENT → MEASURE
Measurement feeds the next conversation. Revisit assumptions and adapt as community needs and evidence change.
How regional collaboration, evidence, economic strength, and effective leadership can help smaller communities advance their priorities in a changing Georgia.
Read the policy brief Download white paper (PDF)A research-informed agenda for newly elected municipal officials in Georgia: stronger onboarding, continuing education, equitable access, and accountable implementation.
Read the policy paperLisa James on expanding early learning without weakening the comprehensive services children and families depend on.
Read the op-ed →Research and recommendations on early childhood prevention, financing comprehensive services, provider collaboration, and youth opportunity.
Read the white paper & briefing →Good research should inform real decisions. Our approach connects careful analysis with the practical challenges of governance, leadership, and community life.
Exploring the relationship between elected-official professional development and municipal policymaking effectiveness.
Discuss research and collaboration
Founder & Principal, LMJ
Lisa A. James combines business acumen with public policy insight to help leaders translate complex challenges into strategic action. Her financial services leadership spans more than 25 years, including service as a vice president. As a city council member, mayor pro tem, nonprofit board chair, and finance committee chair, she has brought financial oversight, strategic planning, and coalition-building to organizational and community priorities. Her leadership and advocacy through the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and the National League of Cities (NLC) further inform her approach to effective governance, policy development, and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
Let’s turn evidence, engagement, and strategy into action.
Connect with Lisa James, MPP, Founder & Principal.
