Perspective (graphical)

Sociology

Qualitative research

Social science

Engineering

Political science

Artificial intelligence

Management

Economics

Systematic review

Problem statement

Mission statement

Statement (logic)

MEDLINE

Foundation (evidence)

Public relations

Computer science

Management science

Thematic analysis

Engineering ethics

Journal of Management & Organization

A mission statement is a widely used strategic tool that emphasises an organisation’s uniqueness and identity. It was in the early 1980s that academics, managers, and consultants recognised the need for explicitly formulating a mission statement in organisations. Since then, mission statements have remained as a popular strategic tool in organisations. This article conducts a systematic literature review to synthesise research on mission statements. The analysis of the 53 articles selected includes a bibliometric and content analysis. According to their perspective, the works selected were grouped into four thematic areas: (1) mission statement development, (2) mission statement components, (3) mission impact on employees, and (4) mission impact on performance. The overreaching conclusion is that mission statements are widely used in practice but poorly researched in theory. Most articles adopt a managerial phenomenon-based strand, lacking a deep theoretical foundation. The article ends with suggestions for further research in terms of theory, practice, and methodology.

The real mission of the mission statement: A systematic review of the literature