Having a clear vision and purpose shows what a good outcome is (the vision) and the reason for it (the purpose). You should be able to see the vision and purpose in every decision you make. Everyone needs to buy into and own the vision and purpose for change to work.
Taking vision into action
A vision clearly defines where you want to go. A clear strategy must be in place to make the vision a reality. This strategy should show the decisions made to reach the vision and the steps to put them into action.
A good vision and purpose require choices
Creating a vision, purpose and strategy does not eliminate the need to make choices. Writing your vision, purpose and strategy means making tough choices. You need to justify what you will not do. That is key to a strong vision and strategy.
“Most organisations…will generate laundry lists of desirable outcomes…then, in recognition that it is a dog’s dinner, the label “long-term” is added so that none of them need to be done today” Good Strategy, Bad Strategy, Richard P. Rumelt.
Your vision and purpose drives your change
Your vision and purpose become an anchor for your change. It outlines what you are trying to do and how you will get there.
What informs your vision and purpose?
A good vision and purpose are based on information and insight from a wide range of sources. Bringing information together, stepping back as a group of stakeholders, and considering what direction it points you in helps to ground your vision and purpose in what really matters.
How might you set your vision and purpose?
A wide range of approaches can help you develop your vision and purpose. You may find it helpful to follow an approach or draw inspiration from it. Using three horizons can help you frame your vision and set your purpose. One challenge in making changes is figuring out if they improve things or make minor tweaks.
This Three Horizons tool can help you consider:
- what changes you need to make
- how to shift away from things that are not working
- how to move towards a more integrated model of care
Regardless of how you choose to approach setting your vision and purpose, it is important to ensure that this is developed as collaboratively as possible with the people and stakeholders that you need to buy into the vision and purpose. If you need to convince them to do something, then it can be helpful to involve them at the vision setting stage.
