Understanding the Structure of Vision & Mission Statements: Example of a COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT (CoM)

Key Components of an Organization’s “Vision Statement” Vision Statement for CoM

1. What the organization ‘ideally’ wants to become? Determined to become a regional torchbearer in the
2. What ‘ideal’ context the organization sees itself within? knowledge ecosystem of the 21st century
Explanation of the Vision Statement
 ‘Determined’ suggests the seriousness and resolve of the CoM
 A ‘torchbearer’ is an individual or organization that sets examples as a leader and inspires others to follow
 ‘Knowledge ecosystem’ is a buzzword in the 21st century whereby HEIs look at themselves within the context of an ecosystem

Key Components of an Organization’s “Mission Statement” Mission Statement for CoM

1. What is the organization for (purpose)? Striving to meet national knowledge needs and address
2. What does the organization do within its ‘specific’ international information challenges through higher
context?
education, training and research excellence within
3. What guiding principles will the organization follow to
achieve its purpose? management sciences, social sciences, computer
sciences and allied disciplines by focusing on initiative,
resourcefulness and collaboration
Explanation of the Mission Statement
 ‘Striving’ suggests the continuous struggle and effort of CoM
 ‘Meet national knowledge needs’ and ‘address international information challenges’ are what CoM sees its purpose to be within the
knowledge ecosystem
 ‘Higher education, training and research excellence’ are what CoM specifically does
 ‘Management sciences, computer sciences, social sciences and allied disciplines’ are the ‘specific’ knowledge contexts of CoM
 ‘Initiative’ – the first guiding principle for an enterprising/entrepreneurial organization within an ecosystem – means CoM will
continue to initiate programs, projects etc. independently
 ‘Resourcefulness’ – the second guiding principle for an enterprising/entrepreneurial organization within an ecosystem – means CoM
will continue to overcome all the difficulties and challenges it faces
 “Collaboration” – the third guiding principle for an enterprising/entrepreneurial organization within an ecosystem – means CoM will
continue to build partnerships with other stakeholders within the ecosystem (i.e. HEI, govt. industry, nonprofits)