What is the difference between vision and mission?

Vision and mission statement

The vision of any organization at some future time shows very small image of any organization. Normally it is make or set for the organization, that what is the organization plans for future or upcoming, basically the purpose of vision to find something.

An organization vision statement presents the upcoming or future desire which is valid and it should must be go on and never ever should be change with each cycle of an organization.

Examples of effective Vision statements include:

Microsoft: “Empower people through great software anytime, anyplace, and on any device."

Mission statement shows the exact purpose of the organization. This statement is primary objective of the organization to show the plans, aims and programs of the company. A mission statement is bit different from the vision statement.

A clear mission statement also focus on what are the advantages which is you are offering to your patrons as well as consumers it also tells you exact purpose of your organization.

Examples of effective Mission statements include:

Nike: “To bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world."

Nissan: "Nissan provides unique and innovative automotive products and services that deliver superior, measurable values to all stakeholders in alliance with Renault.

Difference between Vision and Mission statements

While a mission statement describes what a company wants to do now, a vision statement outlines what a company wants to be in the future.

The Mission Statement concentrates on the present; it defines the customer(s), critical processes and it informs you about the desired level of performance.

The Vision Statement focuses on the future; it is a source of inspiration and motivation. Often it describes not just the future of the organization but the future of the industry or society in which the organization hopes to effect change.

Comparison chart

	Mission Statement	Vision Statement
About	A Mission statement talks about HOW you will get to where you want to be. Defines the purpose and primary objectives related to your customer needs and team values.	A Vision statement outlines WHERE you want to be. Communicates both the purpose and values of your business.
Answer	It answers the question, “What do we do? What makes us different?”	It answers the question, “Where do we aim to be?”
Time	A mission statement talks about the present leading to its future.	A vision statement talks about your future.
Function	It lists the broad goals for which the organization is formed. Its prime function is internal; to define the key measure or measures of the organization’s success and its prime audience is the leadership, team and stockholders.	It lists where you see yourself some years from now. The inspires you to give your best. It shapes your understanding of why you are working here.
Change	Your mission statement may change, but it should still tie back to your core values, customer needs and vision.	As your organization evolves, you might feel tempted to change your vision. However, mission or vision statements explain your organization’s foundation, so change should be kept to a minimum.
Developing a statement	What do we do today? For whom do we do it? What is the benefit? In other words, why we do what we do? What, For Whom and Why?	Where do we want to be going forward? When do we want to reach that stage? How do we want to do it?
Features of an effective statement	Purpose and values of the organization: Who are the organization’s primary "clients" (stakeholders)? What are the responsibilities of the organization towards the clients?	Clarity and lack of ambiguity: Describing a bright future (hope); Memorable and engaging expression; realistic aspirations, achievable; alignment with organizational values and culture.

Developing a mission statement

The best way to develop a mission statement is to brainstorm with those connected to your business. Ask employees and customers what they see as your biggest strengths and weaknesses. It's important to see how others see your company and your brand so that you have more than one perspective. Take your time when writing the statement; it may take more than a few hours, so set aside a day to piece everyone's ideas together.