Defining strategic objectives: A methodology suited for public organizations

In order to manage public organizations strategically, both the strategic management and the total quality management theory indicates a limited number of 'strategic objectives or goals' to be defined. These objectives, which have to be specific but qualitative statements of commitment, constitute the vital foundation for defining strategic targets, hence for action plans, resource allocation plans, and budget preparation. However, defining strategic objectives through ad hoc processes usually do not result in an effective set of statements. Through our training and consulting experience, gained in the midst of a wide and strong wave of re-shaping of public institutions in our country, we have come to develop a structured process for defining strategic objectives. In this paper, we first review the strategic management literature in general, and with regard to methods for defining 'the right' strategic objectives. We then introduce a workable process that is participatory, creativity enhancing, and consensus building.