Environmental managers all face differing realities, though similarities exist. This diagram represents a generalised management cycle in which the community, policy makers, managers and scientists all participate, taking the lead at different stages. Indicators can help groups, or an individual enterprise. Here we particularly assume that knowledge from science is required as one ingredient for success - as often it is.

The planning phase begins with interaction between society identifying important environmental values and visions (e.g. conservation of key species), and policy makers establishing approaches which reflect those collective aspirations (e.g. ecologically sustainable development). Policy makers and managers then identify the related environmental issues (e.g. incidental catch of albatrosses by fishermen using long-lines).

Managers and scientists develop management objectives (e.g. reducing by-catch by redesign of nets), and associated targets (e.g. achieving negligible catch of albatrosses within 5 years). Managers then, through operational planning, identify and develop necessary resources and tools, and design the programs needed to implement the plan and to achieve the objectives and targets.

One tool in the manager's toolbox is the environmental indicator.

The design phase, and ensuing activities, involve and affect various people, both direct users and the wider community.

Often it is necessary to gather and process information although, sometimes, existing information and understanding is sufficient to start immediately on improving environmental actions. These actions may range from implementing policy changes, (e.g. new fishing regulations) to reallocating resources, to on-ground management (e.g. shifting farm fences). Critical to the success of the management cycle is evaluation of its steps and their outcomes, which completes the cycle and helps assure its continual improvement. Scientists are often well placed to help managers and policy makers in this evaluation.