MISSION AND VISION

At the outset, let us remind ourselves of the fact that Mission and Vision statements are necessary for both the individual and the organization or the institution he is connected with. Both people and organizations need to establish a strategic framework for significant success.

The constituents of the framework are as under:

- A vision for the future
- A mission that defines what you are doing
- Values that shape one’s actions
- Strategies that zero in on your key success approaches.
- Goals and action plans to guide your Daily, weekly and monthly actions.

A person’s organization’s success and his personal success depend on how well he defines and live by each of these important things. Let us see in brief about each one of the constituents mentioned above in order that our understanding is clear and try from now on to set for ourselves a Vision, Mission and Goals and reap the benefits by sowing the seed of Success.

Vision statement

A vision is a statement about what your organization wants to become. It should be shared with all members of the organization. This in turn helps them to feel proud, excited and also makes them feel a part of something bigger than themselves. A vision should stretch the organization’s capabilities and image of itself. It gives shape and direction to the organization’s future.

Sample of Vision statement

“To be a 20 Million USD company by 2009-10”. (ABC Limited – India)

The key focus areas towards this vision are:

- Product specialization
- Technology upgradation
- Supply chain management
- Organization development and
- World class manufacturing practices


Mission Statement

Mission or Purpose is a precise description of what an organization does. It should describe the business the organization is in. It is a definition of “Why” the organization exists currently. Each member of an organization should be able to verbally express this mission. Additionally each person needs a mission for his or her Life. The alignment of your life mission with your organization’s mission is one of the key factors in determining whether you are happy with your work and work place. If they are incongruent, you are likely to be dissatisfied with your work choice.

Samples of Mission statement

“We want to be the best service organization in the world” (IBM)
“To give ordinary folk the chance to buy the same thing as rich people” (Wal-mart)
“To help customers achieve their business objectives by providing innovative, best-in-class consulting, IT solutions and services.” (TATA Consultancy Services)
“To be the preferred source for speciality Valves in the industry” (ABC Limited – India)
We commit to achieve the mission through

- Mutual trust with technology partners
- Motivated employees
- Technology
- SCM and
- Ethical business practices.

Don’t you feel that you should have one for you as an Individual to start with...?


Values

Values are traits or qualities that are considered worthwhile; they represent an individual’s highest priorities and deeply held driving force. Value statements define how people want to behave with each other in the organization. They are statements about how the organization will value customers, suppliers and the internal community. The values of each of the individuals in the work place, along with their experience, upbringing and so on, mesh together to form the corporate culture. The values of senior leaders are especially important in the development of the culture.

Companies whose employees understand the Mission and Goals enjoy a 29% greater return than other firms. (Watson Wyatt work study)


Strategies

Strategies are the broadly defined four or five key approaches the organization will use to accomplish its mission and drive toward the vision. Goals and action plans usually flow from each strategy.

One example of a strategy is employee empowerment and teams.
Another is to pursue a new worldwide market.
Another is to streamline the current distribution system using lean management principles.
Yet another is to create and maintain a high tech manufacturing facility
Adapt a supportive ERP
Maintain a slim and satisfied team and adapt a lean manufacturing system.

Goals and action plans

After you have developed the key strategies, turn your attention to developing several goals that will enable you to accomplish each of your strategies.

An often repeated saying is that the Goals should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time based.

The last but not the least important note is to immediately start thinking about our own Life as our Values form the cornerstone for all we do and accomplish. Check if you are truly living your values.

S.Sekar, B.Tech, PGDM.
Contact: sekrajc@yahoo.com