As we said in the introduction, we're defining an organization generally as an economic entity larger than an individual. But what sets your organization apart from any other? In this chapter we'll look at two ways to define your organization's collective self-identity. We'll start with your internal identity: your mission, vision, and values. Then we'll talk about your external identity as you relate specifically to customers and partners—namely, your business model.
A mission is a verb. It's something you do.
A vision is a noun. It's something you see.
Values are rules of thumb, touchstones you refer to when making difficult decisions.
Your business model is your plan for sustainably executing your mission, in pursuit of your vision, according to your values. Your mission, vision, and values are about your organization's core identity, your internal center, if you will. Your business model is where you turn outwards: Who are your customers? What do they need and want? How are you going to serve them? Who will partner with you?
Strageyzer's Business Model Canvas and Value Proposition Canvas are the best place to start in wrapping your head around what a business model is and how to develop one. Go watch the videos at those links; here's what the canvases look like:
Download the canvases, work through Strategyzer's training materials, and pin down your business plan.
A strong self-understanding does no good if its not shared with others. Since by our definition an organization is larger than just one individual, an organization needs some way to communicate—and an open organization doubly so.