Strategic Management Process (SLP) - Essay Example

Strategic Management Project (SLP) Strategic Management Project (SLP) Vision ments and Mission mentsare very important for successful operation of many organizations. A vision statement is an organization’s dream. It entails what the organization believes are the “ideal conditions” for its community. In simple terms, it is the organization’s assumption on how things would look if those issues important to it are appropriately addressed. It is a way of clarifying an organization’s beliefs as well as governing principles, to not only the organization members but also to the community as a whole (Wright et al., 2008). A Mission Statement, on the other hand, gives a description of the things an organization is going to do and why.

It outlines the “primary objectives” as well as the purpose of the organization in question. Unlike Vision Statement which focuses on the outsiders, a Mission Statement primarily concerns itself with the internal organization. It outlines the most crucial measures for the organization’s success, and as such, its main audience is the organization’s leadership team as well as stakeholders. However, Vision Statement also touches on an organization’s purpose, but this is only as far as the organization’s values as concerned and not “bottom line measures.

” It shows the organizational values and purpose (Rothwell, 2010).There are five criteria I believe are very crucial in devising a Mission Statement. First, the Mission Statement should clearly describe the things an organization is going to do and why. I think this criterion is very important, since it is what defines the organization’s reason for existence, at least to the workers and the stakeholders. As such, it gives the concerned parties the motivation to work hard towards achieving their common goals.

The Mission statement should also be oriented towards giving productive results. It is through the results, which should be realistic, that an organization can work clearly knowing what it targets to achieve. This keeps all stakeholders focused on achieving the particular goals. In addition, the statement should include not only the organization’s goals but it should also capture the people who are to work towards achieving the said goals. This is important because it not only sets clear targets for the organization but also makes the various stakeholders to own the goals, a factor that is very vital for improved performance within the organization.

The statement should also be concise, but one that covers everything in its own scope. This is not only easy to read but it also protects the organization of being accused of being limited in target. Finally, the statement should boost the organization’s image, especially as one that is very competent and professional. This will work to reassure those who fund the organization’s projects that by stepping in to help the organization, they made a fruitful choice (Naggy and Fawcett).There are also five criteria that, to me, look better placed when one an organization needs to devise its Vision Statement.

One, a Vision Statement should be one that gives, to insiders and outsiders, a hope for a better future. It is this statement that shows the organization’s concern for everyone concerned. One that shows some hope for a brighter future will actually make more people not only interested in the organization’s activities but also make them willing to join the organization, whether as customers, clients, or sponsors. The statement should also be one that is able to inspire at least most community members to actually realize their dreams “through positive or effective action.

” This will also help the organization to gain acceptance from the community and sponsors since it shows the organization’s commitment to and sensitivity to the community needs. The statement should also be able “draw people to common work.” This is very important, especially for organizations that run community development projects, since such projects need the participation of the local people. Moreover, the statement should clearly show ways by which other the various aspects of the organization’s action plan are to be incorporated.

This proves to the stakeholders and the general public that the organization is very organized. The vision should also build from the human side of the organization’s mission and be inclusive in nature. This also proves the organization’s commitment to protecting human dignity (Wright et al., 2008).Both the Mission and Vision Statements have to be inclusive in nature. Both also work towards promoting the image of the organization, especially when it comes to dealing with outsiders, as both need to recognize the importance of these people.

However, while a Mission Statement seeks to majorly influence the internal operations, the Vision Statement seeks to inspire the whole community to work towards building a better future for all people in the community. Effective Vision and Mission Statements are certainly two of the most important things an organization does, since they affect almost all other activities within the organization (McNamara, 2010).ReferencesMcNamara, C. (2010). Basic of Developing Mission, Vision, and Value Statements.

Accessed on 26 January 2012 from .Naggy, J. and Fawcett, S. (2012). “Proclaiming Your Dream: Developing Vision and Mission Statements.” The Community Tool Box. Accessed on 26 January 2012. .Rothell, William J. (2010). Effective Succession Planning: Ensuring leadership continuity and building talent from within. AMACOM Div American Mgmt Assn.Wright et al. (2008). The IT Regulatory and Standards Compliance Handbook: how to Survive Information Systems Audit and Assessment. Syngress.