Macro and micro goal setting: In search of coherence

In this article we discuss macro and micro goal setting approaches, focusin g on the relations between goals at different organisational levels. Transl ating strategic goals in a top-down manner throughout the organisation is a rather complex process. In organisations, at least one intermediate level between macro (i.e. strategic) and micro (i.e. operational) goals can be di stinguished: the level of meso (i.e. tactical) goal setting. The process of a strategic dialogue is introduced to arrive at organisational goal cohere nce, which is defined as consensus on goal priorities within single constit uencies and between multiple constituencies at different organisational lev els. This process is illustrated in a case study, in which the CATPCA metho d has been applied to empirically operationalise degrees of consensus. Effe cts of the strategic dialogue on organisational goal coherence are demonstr ated.