Many participants believe that in spite of The Vail Agenda, the 1994 Vision Document, the 12-Point Plan, 21st Century Task Force, and strategic and customer service plans, there is no shared vision in the National Park Service.

On the local level, few groups could articulate the vision or purpose for their park. Notable exceptions included Redwood, where employees had a printed statement on a card, and Lake Mead, where the staff had clearly articulated a vision in their strategic plan.

RECOMMENDATIONS

• Information flow has to include more than a dissemination of documents. When significant documents are issued, a marketing plan should be included to articulate how the plan was developed and to ensure that dissemination includes all employees.
• There should be an opportunity for dialogue and critical thinking in open forums where employees have time to understand, think, question, and discuss important documents and policies in a nonthreatening environment.
• Managers should be held accountable for their vision and their success in articulating it to their subordinates. Avenues such as 360° feedback can provide insight and evaluate success.