2019 State Standard of Excellence
1. Strategic Goals
Did the Governor have public statewide strategic goals?
Why is this important?
The creation of statewide strategic goals is an important first step in aligning state government budgets, policies, and programs to improve outcomes on a state government’s highest priorities.
Leading Example
CO
Statewide
In 2019, Colorado launched the Governor’s Dashboard, which outlines four high-priority strategic goals: tax reform and economic development, energy and renewables, health, and education and the workforce. Each high-priority strategic area is supported by a cabinet working group as well as aligned goals, metrics, and strategies contained within agency performance plans. The governor’s annual budget request also links these goals to specific agency activities and outcomes.
Promising Examples
AZ
Statewide
Since 2017, the Arizona Governor’s Office has developed and updated the Governor’s Fundamentals Map, which lists goals under six statewide priority areas. All cabinet agencies are required to complete an annual strategic plan that includes strategic issues, mission statement, description, performance measures, and funding.
OR
Statewide
In 2018, the Oregon Governor’s Office released the Action Plan for Oregon, which identified key priorities for the state in the areas of: environment, healthcare, education, transportation, good government, earthquake preparedness, housing and homelessness, child welfare, and job training.
UT
Statewide
In 2018, the Utah Governor’s Office released the Utah Life Elevated 2020 Initiative, which includes four statewide goals: effective and efficient government, thriving communities, qualified workforce, and equitable and competitive revenue.
VT
Statewide
In 2018, the Vermont Governor’s Office released the state’s 2018-2023 Strategic Plan, which outlines four statewide goals related to the economy, affordability, vulnerability, and modernization. The goals were established in a 2017 executive order. As required by a 2014 law, and a related executive order, the state’s Chief Performance Officer annually reports data related to these goals and fiscal transparency.
WA
Statewide
In 2017, the Washington Governor’s Office issued five overarching goals with aligned outcome measures: world-class education, prosperous economy, sustainable energy and clean environment, healthy and safe communities, and effective, efficient, and accountable government.