Core Organizational Definitions: Mission, Vision, and Management Fundamentals

Core Organizational and Management Definitions

Mission

The fundamental purpose, end, or raison d'être of a firm or organization. It defines:

1. What it aims to serve in the environment or social system in which it operates.
2. What it claims to do.
3. For whom it is going to do it.

The mission is influenced by several elements, including: the history of the organization, the preferences of management and/or owners, external or environmental factors, available resources, and its distinctive capabilities.

Vision

Defined as the long-term direction of the company. It provides guidance and encouragement to steer strategic decisions, supporting the growth of competitiveness.

Allies

Institutions or private or public organizations that meet the following criteria:

• They share the missionary objectives of the Fund and emphasize strengthening and supporting the participation of civil society organizations under common interest rate policies.
• They have demonstrable experience in programs, projects, and actions that promote successful social development, environmental, and/or child welfare processes.
• They recognize the Fund as a technical, administrative, financial, and institutional counterpart.

Quality

Can be defined as the ability to achieve desired operational goals. It is a characteristic feature for the whole of an institution, granting it the ability to meet needs.

Control

The process of determining what is taking place, evaluating it, and, if necessary, implementing corrective action so that the execution proceeds according to plan.

Direction (Management)

Consists of directing operations through the cooperative effort of subordinates to obtain high levels of productivity via supervision and motivation.

Efficiency

“The ability to achieve a goal using the best possible means.” This term is preferably applicable to people (with few exceptions), hence the term efficient.

Effectiveness

“Ability to achieve the desired or expected effect, regardless of the resources or means employed.” This definition reflects a style and should perhaps refer more to good teams. (Note: This definition often contrasts with efficiency, focusing on results over resource usage.)

Efficacy and Goal Achievement

Refers to achieving the goal (often related to quantification). While compatible with standard use, it must be understood that one can only be effective when defined as the “capacity to achieve the desired effect.”