Content analysis of mission, vision and strategic goals as stated in the strategic plans of metropolitan municipalities in Turkey

Globalization has been influencing all sorts of organizations and societies in an increasing pace. Influences and outcomes of globalization are manifold. For instance economies, technologies and politics of nations are forced to become aligned with the rules and necessities of globalization so that societies could benefit more effectively from the phenomenon. Today not only profit seeking organizations but also the public organizations are realigning their resources, structures, goals and strategies around globalization and its requirements.Public organizations in particular are pushed to revamp their administrative and financial activities along with the globalized know-how to clear off long-standing problems. Beginning in 2003, a new public law code 5018 required all public organizations to obey ?Public Organizations? Financial Administration and Control Law?. This law demands that all municipalities with population over 50,000 develop strategic plans in order to meet citizens? needs in the municipality. The main thrust of such a shift toward strategic planning is to use public funds more productively (effectiveness and efficiency, transparency, accountability and integrity measures must be regarded in using public funds).This research content-analyzed strategic plans of 16 metropolitan municipalities in order to determine whether there are differences and similarities in terms of their main duty (mission), vision and stated strategic goals. Findings of the analysis, conclusion and recommendations are presented in the study.Keywords: Metropolitan Municipalities, Mission, Vision, Strategic Goals, Content Analysis