Vision Statements - SDP entry 2

A vision statement is a comprehensive summary of an organization’s or entity’s objective(s). Whereas a mission statement outlines current operational status, a vision statement offers a unifying picture of the future. The rhetoric should provide inspiration, a framework for decision making and inform/entice potential clients.

Here are two vision statements which illustrate some of the finer points.

The first belongs to Marvel Entertainment. This particular statement incorporates both the mission and vision statement criteria. We initially get a “snapshot” of the organization's status which leads us directly to the strategy for future development.

“With a library of over 5,000 characters, Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies. Marvel's operations are focused on utilizing its character franchises in licensing, entertainment, publishing and toys. Areas of emphasis include feature films, DVD/home video, consumer products, video games, action figures and role-playing toys, television and promotions. Rooted in the creative success of over sixty years of comic book publishing, Marvel's strategy is to leverage its character franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world (emphasis mine).”

This statement is the preamble of the Constitution of the United States of America. Here we see a list of criteria which the governing document is to satisfy. With these guidelines in place legislative, executive and judicial entities have a framework upon which to base decisions for forming and interpreting the articles contained within.

“We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

SDP - Entry 1

Title: Neverwinter Nights 2

Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Date released: 16/11/07
Version: 1.03
Classification: Computer, Role-playing Game

Neverwinter Nights 2 offers real-time action game play, fused with turn-based table-top mechanics. Using the updated Dungeons and Dragons rule set, the game allows a player to take part in an epic story driven campaign.

With NPC interaction, character development, an array of possible companions and good old fashion sword and sorcery combat, NWN2 has a lot to offer a player looking for a classic adventure experience.

In a vacuum, the game hits all the right notes. Unfortunately it does not run in a vacuum, it runs in a computer. The system requirements are quite steep; users meeting or even surpassing those requirements are receiving low frame rates. Moreover, the graphical presentation, though quite nice, does not reflect the hefty computing demands.

Where NWN2 really separates itself from its peers is the customization tools bundled with the application. The editor, reportedly the same IDE used by the developers, offers users an unprecedented ability to realize their own vision. As with the game itself, the editor is plagued by less than optimal performance.

Summary

Overall Rating: (Poor) 1 2 3 3.75 4 5 (Excellent)

Pros:

• Robust game play.
• Engaging story.
• Powerful editor.

Cons:

• Technical flaws hinder performance.
• Camera controls unwieldy
• Companion AI boggling at times.