While I agree with Andrew Cardow that vision statements must be unique to
each institution. (Of course, that doesn't mean it isn't useful to look at
other institutions' vision statements.) I disagree, however, that vision
statements should only reflect internal culture ethics and values along with
the feelings and attitudes of the staff and should be "arrived at the end
rather than the start of the planning of your strategic intentions."

As public institutions, our planning should include our communities.
However, rather than emerging at the end of the planning process, the vision
should DRIVE the planning. When you get down to it, how can you
strategically determine how to get there (planning), when you haven't yet
decided where you want to go (vision)?

Susan B.F. Wageman
Senior Manager, Community Learning & Outreach
The Tech Museum of Innovation     [log in to unmask]
145 W San Carlos St.              408-795-6303
San Jose, CA  95113               fax 408-279-7167
http://www.thetech.org/

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