At the beginning of our work with a client, we often bring together a team of staff including executives and managers to construct a framework which describes the mission of the organization and the priority intermediate outcomes which combine to producing that impact.  It's an interesting process as a wide range of interests, needs, and responsibilities perspectives come together to form a cohesive whole.  It not only provides a context for ongoing strategic conversations, but it also helps each person see the value of their worth in the context of the organization.