What are the core elements of a mission statement?

The core elements of a mission statement focus on clarifying the organization’s fundamental purpose and the basic elements that define its overall direction. The concept of "who, what, when, where, and why" encapsulates the essence of a mission statement by targeting the key factors necessary for a clear and concise declaration of intent.

Understanding "who" refers to the target audience or the stakeholders the organization aims to serve. "What" identifies the primary function or the offerings of the organization. "When" and "where" can establish the context of the mission, specifying the timeframe and geographical focus of the operations. Finally, "why" addresses the rationale behind the organization’s existence and its overarching goals.

In contrast, the other choices may contain relevant components related to strategic planning or operational oversight but do not address the foundational elements of a mission statement with the same directness and clarity. For instance, options involving metrics or feedback processes focus more on execution and evaluation rather than the core expression of purpose that a mission statement is designed to present.