As well, with all due respect, I couldn't possibly disagree with this more. I recognize that likely even the most ardent advocates for developing and adhering to mission and vision statements will admit that those statements are not going to make an organization great simply by existing. With that said, the idea that it's a waste of time to collectively craft, update and plan around those statements is very problematic to me. If your annual goals (and frankly every decision you make) aren't in support of the mission, of what are they in support?
If your mission is simply to have edible food and available books, then make that known. I'd suggest most of us are truly interested in providing the very best student services, maximizing revenue for the university, or some combination thereof. We likely won't get there tomorrow, but it's what we truly want to be. It's also an entirely valid mission to be an organization driven purely by revenue. There's no reason that shouldn't be eloquently made clear to those who work with you, around you, and your customers.
To answer the original question, the University of Illinois at Chicago went through a process in Auxiliaries about a year and a half ago to reconsider our mission, vision and associated. I, and a colleague, brought together a small (15) group of staff with diversity in their roles in the organization to perform a number of exercises and have frank discussions about our organization. Our Auxiliaries area has a mixed mission related both to student life and experience and revenue generation and business innovation.
At the end of a few months, we'd developed a new mission, vision, value set, as well as four overarching goals that guide all our work in every corner of the organization.
Mission
Our mission is to provide opportunities for engagement that promote development, inclusion, and student success through the creation of welcoming spaces and impactful experiences, offering a uniquely urban university experience. Through our commitment to offering excellent services, we reinvest capital in the student experience.
Vision
We will be the epicenter of innovation and collaboration for the campus community and beyond. Through our commitment to excellence and fiscal responsibility we will set the standard for student engagement and building a lifetime affinity to UIC.
Four Overarching Goals (each have some extended narrative, as well)
Impactful Engagement
Modern Places & Spaces
Enterprising Business Development
Innovative Operational Effectiveness
I'd be happy to chat more offline about our process if it would help. I understand these processes can sometimes be an exercise in repetition, but I truly believe they can be impactful, fresh, interesting and even fun.
Good luck!
Jason-
Jason Maslanka
Executive Director, Digital Services
UIC Student Affairs
(312) 413-8132
jasonm@uic.edu