Availability of a clear, strategic mission statement

Availability of a clear, strategic mission statement

Availability of a clear, strategic mission statement

The existence of a mission statement, which is a written expression of purpose– the overall reason an organization exists.

A mission statement is clear and strategic if it:

  • Defines the program or organization’s purpose;
  • Defines the program or organization’s intended clients;
  • Is used to guide strategic planning; and
  • Is reviewed periodically to assure that it provides a vision for the future and continues to reflect fundamental values and goals.

Data Requirement(s):

Evidence of a written mission statement; other information on the organization’s mission.

Organizational/program documents including plans, staff orientation materials, policy manuals and statements, and marketing materials.

This indicator provides a summary measure of the existence of a clear sense of direction in the form of a written mission statement. Having a clear mission statement that is well disseminated within an organization facilitates strategic planning and setting priorities based on the needs of current and potential clients.

Although programs and organizations without a formal mission statement may perform in a highly effective manner, a mission statement serves the important function of helping to keep staff focused on the accomplishment of long-term objectives.

Although the basic mission of an organization may remain the same for an extended period, the language of the mission statement must provide a clear focus and a priority for organizational strategies and activities.

This indicator is quantifiable on a scale of 0 to 5, as indicated below.

0 No written mission statement
1 Mission statement exists but fails to conform to the above criteria
2 Mission statement exists and conforms with only one of the above criteria
3 Mission statement exists and conforms with 2 of the above criteria
4 Mission statement exists and conforms with 3 of the above criteria
5 Mission statement exists and conforms with all 4 of the above criteria

Even with a quantifiable scale for which to measure this indicator, this indicator is still somewhat subjective.  Evaluators should be mindful that although an organization may have a clear, strategic mission statement available, this is a benchmark indicator and a step toward addressing the more important issue, which is the use of the mission statement to guide the organization’s objectives and strategic planning.

policy, health system strengthening (HSS), management

Related content

Health System Strengthening