Basic Dimensions of Strategic Management

Abstract

This chapter seeks to present the basic concepts that are often encountered within the framework of strategic management—such as mission, vision, and policy—thus introducing the key elements of strategic management. This will provide the best possible understanding of these specific terms from the perspective of those who are highly experienced in the management of organizations. Their perspectives are enriched with those of researchers such as Hallinger and Heck, who consider that the terms vision, mission, and goals are often used as identical concepts when they refer to leadership while they make them functional in a different way in empirical investigations. No doubt, the lack of this conceptual clarity is rather problematic, given that the terms have different theoretical foundations and offer different dimensions about how managers may influence the activity of an organization. In view of this, Chap. 1: Examines and defines the terms “mission” and “vision” Analyzes and determines the formulation of a mission statement and the efficient transmission of a vision to an organization’s members Defines the term “aim” while outlining the strategies of an organization Analyzes the term “strategy” and presents the characteristics of effective strategic elements Analyzes the term “policy” and distinguishes organizational policy from organizational strategy Briefly analyzes the term “program”