Strategic Direction

On 10 November 2008, the Elected Group and Executive Team participated in a strategic planning workshop. This workshop resulted in the creation of a vision, key focus areas and strategic objectives in response to an internal and external environmental analysis.

In addition to this workshop, all staff participated in a similar workshop on Friday 21 November 2008. This workshop allowed staff to assess the strategic direction set by the Elected Group and establish how they can contribute towards achieving the direction set by Council. The workshop for staff resulted in the creation of a mission and values statement for the organisation. This mission and values statement outlines the desired behaviour expected of staff whilst performing their functions and duties for the Shire of Jerramungup. Staff performance is measured against these agreed minimum expectations as the mission and values statement permeates the performance appraisal process.

The format of the new strategic plan is simple and easy to follow. Previous plans have contained a significant amount of detail with regard to the process applied during the development of the strategic plan. Although a rigorous process has been applied, the key workable elements have been extracted to form the public document. This document sets a direction for the organisation for the next 5 years. As such, it provides staff with autonomy and a sense of purpose.

It is common for strategic plans to be created only to satisfy legislative requirements. The consultation with staff, the alignment with operational activities and the incorporation into the performance appraisal process will ensure that the Shire of Jerramungup Strategic Plan 2009 - 2014 is a living and working document.