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The investigation has adapted this model from Robbins (Robbins, 200I) and applied it to the
study area with the aim of advancing the developmental agenda based on the local SWOT
analysis. The effective and efficient utilization of existing landscape and cultural attributes
and their propensity to improve the socio-economic conditions comes under the spot-light in
this case. This model is based on information gathered from the literature review as well as
from empirical conclusions andjudgments made from analyses and discussions ofthis study.
7.3.1 The strategic management process
The hypothetical model for municipal development with optimal use of local resources in
Figure 7.1 can serve as an important tool for municipalities facing the challenge of
underutilization of resources for the economic betterment of the people. This model is
structured into nine phases.
Stage 1: Identification ofvision, mission and objectives
Lynch (2000) defines vision as a declaration or statement that answers the questions what do
we want to create? Every organization has a mission statement that defines its purpose and
answers the question 'what business or businesses are we in'. The process of defining the
mission of organizations, forces management to identify the scope of its products or services
carefully. For the purpose ofthis study, the objectives ofthis research as outlined in the first
and sixth chapters would be points of reference in terms of shared vision and mission for the
Ulundi Municipality.
This study supports the adaptation of this model on the grounds that the study reveals
numerous landscape and cultural features which have economic and development potential in
improving the quality of life ofthe people if put into effective and maximum use. As part of
the findings of the study, most household heads do not know much about the available
landscape and cultural attributes and their developmental potentials in the economy of Ulundi.
This model seeks to provide strategic direction in marketing these features both at the local
and international fronts.
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