Spurs to Higher Things? Mission Statements of UK Universities*

Stuart W. Davies · Keith W. Glaister

69 citations0/0 files storedHigher Education Quarterly

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Organizational Strategy and Culture Higher Education Governance and Development Management and Organizational Studies

Abstract

Abstract Mission statements have been the subject of much discussion in the managerial literature and have recently been adopted by most British universities. This paper reports the results of an investigation into how mission statements have been introduced by British universities and reviews the appropriateness of their use in this sector. Based on a questionnaire survey, an analysis of the degree of commitment to mission statements as a valuable management tool is offered and recommendations suggested for their more effective application. The authors conclude that although there is generally a positive attitude towards mission statements, senior managers within universities tend not to consult widely when formulating them and have put little effort into communicating them to the university's staff. Their importance seems to be perceived in terms of meeting the requirements of an external stakeholder rather than offering the opportunity to develop a real sense of purpose within the organisation.

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References

1958Leadership in Administration: A Sociological Interpretation.1989Exploring Corporate Strategy: Text and Cases 1991The Strategy Concept and Process: A Pragmatic Approach 1991Creating a sense of mission 1989How companies define their mission 1991Mission statements: Selling corporate values to employees 1988Strategic management and business policy 1988Management in the public domain

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