Vision

 

It might seem obvious, but if you don't set the direction for your business it could end up anywhere - or nowhere. But how do you develop a vision, and once you have one, what do you do with it?

Business and personal goals should be aligned. Where can I get ideas to help me achieve my business and personal goals?

 

A broad vision will generally be more robust than one built around a particular technology. Why might I benefit from looking at areas not directly related to my business?

 

A lengthy vision is likely to be confusing (especially to others). Generally, two or three sentences are likely to be more effective than two or three pages. Do I need nice-looking documents that bear little relation to the business?

 

Consistency is important. Are these areas consistent with each other and our brand / image?

 

Questions

 

Is there a clear vision of where the business is going, i.e. do you have a picture of how you would like the business to look?

 

Is the vision documented and accessible to all stakeholders?

 

Does management use the vision to guide decision making?

 

How well do team members understand, agree, and actively support this vision?

 

Is there consistency between the vision of the business, its market positioning, the brand/image, and its culture?

 

How viable is the vision in light of current market conditions?

 

If the vision is achieved, will the business owners/managers satisfy their personal goals?