Which term describes the means through which an organization's strategic goals are expressed?

The term that describes the means through which an organization's strategic goals are expressed is policies. Policies serve as formalized statements that outline the organization's intentions and direction regarding various issues, ensuring that everyone within the organization understands the overarching goals and standards to be followed. They help align day-to-day operations with strategic objectives, providing a clear pathway for decision-making and actions within the organization.

Policies typically encapsulate the organization’s values and priorities, guiding employees' behavior and influencing the establishment of procedures. This clarity fosters a structured approach to meeting strategic goals, ensuring compliance and encouraging the organization to function cohesively towards its objectives. By doing this, policies also support risk management and governance within the organization.

In contrast, protocols, frameworks, and guidelines serve different purposes. Protocols involve specific procedures for routine operations, frameworks provide a conceptual structure for understanding broader principles or systems, and guidelines offer recommended practices without the authoritative weight of policies. This distinction emphasizes the critical role that policies play in articulating an organization's strategic goals.