Vision VS Mission???

     I believed not only me but everyone had a lot of confusion regarding the difference between a Vision and Mission statement. I regularly see Vision statements that are actually Mission statements and vice versa -- from Fortune 500's, nonprofits, and government agencies. I also see well intended Vision and Mission statements that are uninspiring, confusing, and so long that they are impossible for anyone to remember.

     Why does it matter if there is confusion about Vision and Mission statements, or if they are written in a certain way. For the same reasons it is fundamental and valuable for any organization to have a strategic plan as a roadmap for success, it is important to develop a plan around a clearly defined and well written Vision and Mission. Both serve important, yet different roles as core elements of a strategic plan.