Which of the following best describes a strategic initiative?

A strategic initiative can be defined as a specific project or program that organizations implement to help achieve their broader strategic goals. These initiatives are typically aligned with the company's vision and long-term objectives, focusing on delivering tangible results that contribute to its success.

In this context, a strategic initiative goes beyond simply managing day-to-day operations; it’s about setting priorities and allocating resources effectively to propel the organization forward. For example, if a company aims to increase market share, a strategic initiative might be the development of a new product or the expansion into a new market segment to support that goal.

The other options do not align with the definition of a strategic initiative. Evaluating employee performance typically relates to operational excellence and human resources rather than strategic alignment. A financial plan is focused on budgeting and resource allocation for the short term and does not inherently relate to strategic direction. Meanwhile, improving customer service may be part of a broader initiative, but on its own, it does not encapsulate the specific intent of achieving strategic goals in the same way a dedicated project would.