Vision and mission are two essential components of an organisation’s strategic direction. The vision statement describes the organisation’s desired future, it inspires and motivates the employees and stakeholders to work together towards achieving the vision. On the other hand, a mission is a concise statement that describes the organisation’s purpose, the core reason for its existence. Simply, it answers the question of what the organisation does and who it serves. It outlines the organization’s objectives, its target audience, and the value it offers.

Fundamental Differences Between Vision and Mission Statements

• The focus of the vision is the distant future (10 years, 20 years, 30 years); the outcomes of the mission are the near future or here and now.
• Vision gives a broader perspective of the envisioned future state; the mission lays down the actions to attain the vision. A mission statement sometimes has a problem-solution link.

The Significance of Vision and Mission in Business Excellence

1. Alignment and focus: A well-defined vision and mission provide a common understanding of the organization’s purpose and direction. They help align employees’ personal goals with the organization’s objectives, ensuring that everyone is working towards the same end. This alignment fosters a sense of focus and unity, which is crucial for organizational performance.
2. Decision-making and resource allocation: A clear vision and mission serve as a benchmark for decision-making, guiding managers and employees in their daily tasks. They help prioritize initiatives, allocate resources effectively, and ensure that every action taken is in line with the organisation’s overarching goals.
3. Motivation and engagement: A compelling vision and mission inspire and energize employees, motivating them to strive for excellence. By connecting employees’ work to a greater purpose, organisations can boost engagement and job satisfaction, leading to higher productivity and better performance.
4. Differentiation and competitive advantage: A unique and clear vision and mission set an organisation apart from its competitors, providing a strong competitive advantage. They also help communicate the organisation’s value proposition to customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders, building brand recognition and loyalty.

Now, look at the table below for the EFQM award winners for 2017-2021 and their vision and mission statements. These organisations have demonstrated excellence in various areas and have been recognised for their outstanding performance.

For BPIR.com members, if you are interested in learning more about award-winning organisations, click on an organisation’s name to read more details about the organisation.

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