Goal Setting Framework: The First Of Six Steps Of Performanc
Goal Setting Frameworkthe First Of Six Steps Of Performance Management
Assume that you work for the Los Angeles Tribune, a large but struggling newspaper publisher with distribution throughout the Los Angeles region. Various problems have arisen that need to be addressed: The cost of paper is rising, the cost of distribution is rising, circulation revenue is down, advertising revenue is down, largely due to free online listings offered by Craigslist and other online advertising services, customers are largely in the 40+ age range, and the current number of employees cannot continue to be supported if revenue continues to shrink. You have been selected by the CEO to construct a goal-setting framework that focuses on three of the six issues above.
In your APA formatted two- to three-page paper, include a goal statement for each of the three issues you’ve chosen and describe the corresponding strategies, tactics, activities, measures of success, and goal measurements you recommend. Support each with your rationale, citing the textbook as necessary, and be sure to provide specific examples within the activities section. In addition to your two to three pages of written content, a title page and reference page are required. For this assignment, it is possible to make reasonable assumptions regarding the organization’s economic situation and business climate. Be sure to specifically mention any such assumptions that you are making within your paper. Carefully review the Grading Rubric for the criteria that will be used.
Paper For Above instruction
The Los Angeles Tribune faces multiple challenges threatening its sustainability, including rising costs and declining revenues. To address these issues effectively, a strategic goal-setting framework focusing on key problem areas must be established. This paper formulates three targeted goals, along with strategies and measures, to steer the organization toward stability and growth.
1. Goal to Reduce Operating Costs
The first priority is to mitigate the rising costs of paper and distribution. The goal is: "Reduce overall printing and distribution costs by 15% within 12 months through operational efficiencies and strategic vendor negotiations."
Strategies to achieve this include renegotiating contracts with paper suppliers to secure lower prices based on bulk purchasing, and exploring alternative, cost-effective distribution models, such as joint ventures with other regional newspapers or private logistics providers. Activities could involve conducting a comprehensive procurement review to identify potential vendors offering better rates, transitioning to digital delivery for certain editions to reduce print volume, and implementing route optimization software for distribution efficiency.
Measures of success should include percentage reduction in material and distribution costs, vendor contract renegotiation outcomes, and operational KPIs such as delivery timeliness. Regular financial audits and monthly cost tracking will serve as goal measurements, ensuring that the cost-saving initiatives stay on track and are adjusted as necessary.
2. Goal to Diversify Revenue Streams
The second goal addresses declining circulation and advertising revenue: "Expand revenue streams by launching digital subscription services and premium online content within 18 months, aiming for a 25% increase in total revenue."
Strategies involve developing exclusive digital content, such as investigative reports or local event coverage accessible through a subscription model. Activities include investing in a revamped website with user-friendly features, implementing targeted marketing campaigns to attract online subscribers, and partnering with local businesses for sponsorship opportunities. Additionally, creating virtual events or webinars can generate new revenue and engagement from the predominantly 40+ demographic.
Success will be measured by tracking new digital subscription counts, revenue generated from online subscriptions and events, and overall revenue growth compared to baseline figures. The goal measurement involves monthly reporting and adjusting marketing strategies based on user engagement analytics.
3. Goal to Enhance Customer Engagement
The third goal focuses on customer retention and attracting a broader age range: "Increase engagement with the 40+ demographic by 20% within 12 months through targeted content and personalized communication."
Strategies include segmenting the customer base to tailor content that appeals specifically to older readers, such as health, finance, and local community stories. Activities involve deploying email marketing campaigns with personalized content recommendations, launching a loyalty program offering exclusive access to events or discounts, and leveraging social media platforms favored by this age group for interaction.
Measures of success comprise customer engagement metrics such as newsletter open rates, social media interactions, and subscriber retention rates. Regular surveys and feedback forms will help gauge customer satisfaction and inform adjustments to content and communication approaches.
Conclusion
Implementing a focused goal-setting framework allows the Los Angeles Tribune to address its most pressing issues systematically. By reducing costs, diversifying revenue, and increasing customer engagement, the organization can stabilize operations and lay the groundwork for future growth. Each goal's strategies, activities, and measures create a clear roadmap toward financial recovery, ensuring accountability and ongoing assessment.
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