Which Came First - The Vision Statement Or The Mission State

Which Came First - The Vision Statement or The Mission Statement?

In the realm of strategic planning, the debate often arises about whether the vision statement should precede the mission statement or vice versa. Some argue that establishing a clear vision is essential before defining the mission, as the vision sets the overall direction and goals of an organization. On the other hand, others believe that articulating the mission, which outlines the purpose and objectives of the organization, should come first to provide a foundation for developing the vision.

Ultimately, the sequence in which an organization formulates its vision and mission statements may vary based on its unique circumstances and strategic priorities. What do you think – which should come first, the vision statement or the mission statement?

Hi,

Strategic management consists of 3 steps:

1. Strategy Formulation
2. Strategy Implementation
3. Strategy Evaluation

The vision statement is the first step of the formulation stage. It comes first, followed by the mission statement and objectives. However, there are no hard and fast rules. Anyone can be made first.

SAMO :)

Well, talking in general terms...

Without vision, there cannot be a mission. Vision precedes the mission. Without a clear view of the future, the mission may turn impossible.

The Bible says, "Where there is no vision, the people perish" in Proverbs. Vision propels the mission in general terms.

A project was started with a vision, but in the middle of the project, the vision was lost, and the mission became a failure. Vision keeps people moving towards the goal, the mission.

Even in the storms of life, if there is a vision that preserves faith and hope, it helps accomplish the mission.

Can I have your comments?

Although the vision statement has been defined first in books, there is a lot of chaos in practice as some organizations consider the mission first. I believe that when framing a vision statement, it should come first. However, in the process of achieving and moving towards reaching those set goals, we first accomplish the mission. The mission defines what the organization is all about and what they seek to do, rather than what they aspire to be down the line. This achievement ultimately leads to reaching the vision. Both are interrelated; without one, the other is incomplete.

Regards,
Deepa

Hi,

Chronologically, it is indeed the Vision that is present before the Mission is created. Visions are usually the brainchild of one person, the founder, the creator, or the Venture Capitalist - in a word, a LEADER. They are not created; they form.

Missions, on the other hand, are created. They are goals that will be met; they include tangibility and a path. A Mission tells us the HOW and the WHY. A Vision tells us the WHAT and the WHERE.

Regards,
Kenneth

Without vision, how can you create a mission? A mission is based on the vision that is created.