Copyright (c) 2009 All rights reserved. http://works.bepress.com/steven_french Recent documents in Steven NJ French en-us Tue, 20 Oct 2009 21:37:53 PDT 3600 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/14 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/14 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:15:00 PDT Stephen J. Kelly http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/13 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/13 Wed, 27 May 2009 19:14:13 PDT This paper discusses an exploratory investigation into vision and mission, the starting points of the classical strategic planning process (Ginter, Rucks and Duncan 1985). Constructs measuring vision and mission are identified, as well as three other items that are frequently cited in the literature as being critical for effective formulation and implementation of vision and mission statements (latent abilities, market focus and competitor focus). It is argued that clearer definitions of these constructs and others discussed in strategic literature are a necessary step to allow empirical investigation into the interactions inherent in the strategic process. Steven NJ French http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/11 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/11 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 20:19:55 PDT Using a sample of small, regional professional service firms, this paper investigates relationships between firm performance and aspects of strategic planning. Constructs measuring vision, mission, latent abilities, competitor orientation and market orientation are identified using exploratory factor analysis and respondents categorised as non-planners, informal planners, formal planners and sophisticated planners. Multiple performance measures were used to assess the relationship between these factors and categories and firm performance. While no significant relationship between the performance measures and factors is identified, a significant relationship between net profit and informal planning emerges. These mixed results bring into question the value of the classical strategic planning process as a means of achieving a sustainable competitive advantage in the market analysed. Steven NJ French http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/10 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/10 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 20:19:54 PDT Stephen J. Kelly http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/9 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/9 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 20:19:54 PDT Steven NJ French http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/7 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/7 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 20:19:53 PDT Steven NJ French http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/8 http://works.bepress.com/steven_french/8 Sun, 29 Mar 2009 20:19:53 PDT Steven NJ French