MISSION: WHAT DO YOU DO?

IDEO

IDEO is a globally recognised example of a company that regularly addresses wicked problems and opportunities. Its mission (purpose) statement is:?

"IDEO is a design company known for its human-centred, interdisciplinary approach. As early leaders in the practice of design thinking, we create positive impact through design by applying our creative mindsets and skills, and by teaching others to do the same. We help clients and customers around the world build the capacity and outcomes required to navigate today’s complexity and lead their markets.

As problem solvers, we drive change, build new ventures, and design digital and tangible experiences for business, social, and governmental sectors through co-creation with our clients. As teachers, we help individuals, teams and organisations cultivate the confidence they need to step into the future with optimism and creativity."

IDEO’s mission statement is beautifully crafted and effectively communicates the company’s purpose and approach. It highlights IDEO's expertise in design thinking and its commitment to creating a positive impact through its work. The statement also emphasises the company's interdisciplinary approach and focus on co-creation with its clients, which is essential when dealing with wicked problems and opportunities.

The statement conveys that IDEO is a design firm, problem-solving, and teaching organisation. The statement shows that they help clients and customers navigate complexity and build the capacity to lead their markets. Furthermore, IDEO strives to cultivate optimism and creativity among individuals, teams, and organisations, indicating that they value building relationships and fostering growth.

IDEO’s mission statement is clear, concise, and effective in communicating IDEO's values, goals, and approach. It provides insight into the company's mindset. The statement further shows how they aim to create value for their clients and customers while tackling wicked problems and opportunities.

The Importance of an Aligned Mission Statement

A mission aligning with values and vision is crucial, especially in taming wicked problems. A well-defined mission provides clarity of purpose and direction when navigating complex and interconnected issues.?

Collaboration among various stakeholders is often necessary when tackling wicked problems. A mission that aligns with values and vision fosters trust and commitment among stakeholders. Additionally, consistency and credibility are essential when addressing wicked problems. A mission that reflects your organisation’s values and vision enhances credibility and inspires new approaches to problem-solving. Employee motivation and retention are also crucial when addressing wicked problems. A mission that aligns with values and vision inspires a sense of purpose and pride in employees.?

A mission aligned with values and vision fosters resilience and creates a lasting impact on the wicked problems that your organisation seeks to address. By staying true to core principles and objectives, organisations are positioned to make meaningful and positive contributions to society and the environment.

Developing a Mission Aligned to Values and Vision

Developing a mission statement that aligns with your organisation’s values and vision involves a thoughtful process that engages key stakeholders and reflects on the desired impact you want to have.

Begin by revisiting your organisation’s core values and vision statement. Next, ensure that you clearly understand the guiding principles and long-term goals that drive your organisation.

Determine the primary purpose of your organisation and the impact you want to have on your customers, employees, and the world at large. Consider the problems you want to address or the needs you aim to fulfil through your products, services, or initiatives.

Include key stakeholders, such as employees, customers, partners, and investors, in developing the mission statement. Gather their input and perspectives to ensure your mission statement resonates with them and reflects their needs and aspirations.

Craft a concise and clear mission statement that communicates the essence of your organisation’s purpose and how it aligns with your values and vision. Your mission statement should be easily understood and inspire commitment from stakeholders.

Share your draft mission statement with diverse stakeholders and gather feedback. Be open to revising and refining the statement based on their input to ensure it aligns with your organisation’s values and vision.

Once you have a final mission statement, communicate it effectively to all stakeholders and integrate it into your organisation’s culture and operations. Ensure decision-making, strategy, and daily activities consistently reflects your mission.

Review and reassess your mission statement regularly to ensure it remains relevant and aligned with your organisation’s values, vision, and changing external environment. Be prepared to adjust as needed to maintain alignment and effectiveness.

Be well. Be wise. What do you do?

Clive

PLUS, when you're ready, here are five more ways you can develop your skills to tame wicked problems and take wicked opportunities:

1. Subscribe to this newsletter.
2. Take the Wicked Scorecard. What's your work-life like? Wicked or benign? Answer 18 questions and we’ll send you a personalised report. The Wicked Scorecard enables entrepreneurs, founders and leaders to assess the degree to which six environmental factors and challenges are prevalent in your work and personal life: (1) volatility, (2) uncertainty, (3) complexity, (4) ambiguity, (5) turbulence, and (6) contradictions.
3. Download?and read the Introduction to my forthcoming book,?SORTED: Taming Wicked problems with Smart Leadership Thinking
4. Download?and read my SORTED white paper.
5. Four times a month, I make two hours available for four individuals with a big vision of what they want or who can see an emerging leadership challenge. At the end of our conversation, you will have more clarity and confidence around your vision or challenge. Interested? Get in touch?HERE.