From Vision to Reality through Values

The need for managers to develop a vision for their unit/ organization is increasingly viewed as a vital part of their role. Argues that vision provides direction and offers a sense of purpose for employees. Visions can be realized through the development and operation of a value base. Values will be realized if identifiable behavioural responses are identified and exhibited by staff. The attraction of such an approach is that behaviour which does not comply with the desirable value is clearly recognizable and can be realigned by comparing it with the desired behaviour. The pursuit of a vision is an ongoing one and one which will be influenced by the environment within which organizations operate. Successful organizations are those which are underpinned by an explicit value base. The development of a value base which underpins health and social care delivery is strongly recommended if providers and purchasers alike are to meet the needs of those people they serve effectively, namely patients and clients.