Plain Simple Management

Thoughts on keeping things simple

PSM #05: The Mission Statement

The mission statement.

(download)

 

  • What is it?
    • A concise statement of an organization's purpose.
  • Why have one?
    • Defines who we are
    • A Framework for defining goals
    • Provides framework to make decisions
    • IBM
      • respect for the individual
      • customer service
      • excellence
      • Influenced every decision
  • Elements
    • the purpose of the organization
    • the values of the organization
  • Attributes
    • active voice
    • slogan capable
    • unambiguous
  • LInk to goals
    • How will you know you have achieved the mission statement?
    • What would an organization exhibit that meets the mission statement?
    • Expand and construct until specific goals are defined.
    • A mindmap would be helpful!!
  • applicability
    • Applies to organizations
      • Salem Lutheran Church: "Making a bigger Heaven tomorrow by sharing Christ on earth today."
    • Applies to people
      • Franklin Covey
  • References: Google mission statement

Originally published December 13, 2005

PSM #04: Goals

(download)

PSM4: Goals

  • What is a goal?
    • A desired outcome
    • A desired state
  • What are good goals?
    • Based on a mission statement
      • They support what you believe
    • Congruent
      • Don't interfere with each other
    • Written
      • Planning is not thinking, it is writing
      • Active voice
        • subject, verb, object
    • empowering
      • Highly desirable
    • Complete coverage
      • address all areas of life
      • Completely address mission statement
  • What are SMART goals
    • References
    • My own
      • Specific
        • Who, What, When, Where, Why
        • Why is important--it provides the motivation!!
      • Measurable
        • Writing, not thinking
        • Must have an evidence procedure
        • How will you know when you have accomplished the goal
          • The how becomes to goal.
        • Track progress toward goal
          • correct deviations from plan
      • Attainable
        • a stretch
        • within capabilities of the organization or person
      • Realistic
        • Congruent will other goals
        • Valuable
      • Time based
  • Notes on goals
    • People do not work for corporate goals, they work for their own goals
    • Most people don't have goals
      • Manager has no tangible way to motivate
      • Help people set goals for their lives
      • Establish congruence between your goals and their goals
      • Or counsel the person to a place where they can achieve their goals
      • Opposing goals will not be met