The concept of
S.M.A.R.T objective is best described from the term’s initials:
1.
S for Specific
2.
M for Measurable
4.
R for Realistic
5.
T for Timely (and better if it
also Traceable)
Specific
A specific goal has a much greater chance of being
accomplished than a generic goal. A goal can be checked to be specific If can
meet these criteria and answer the six “W” questions:
·
Who is involved? (Who)
·
What do we want to accomplish?
(What)
·
Identify a location (Where)
·
Establish a time frame (When)
·
Identify requirements and
constraints (Which)
·
Specific reasons, purpose or
benefits of accomplishing the goal (Why)
Measurable
A goal shall establish
concrete criteria that can be measured it s progress towards the attainment of
the goal set. A goal can be determined to be measurable if it can be counted
and can give an indication when it is accomplished.
Attainable
A goal set shall
be planned with the necessary steps to achieve the goal. These steps may be
change of attitudes, improvement of skills and financial capability to reach
the goal.
Realistic
A realistic
goal means that the objective set is not
impossible to be achieved and shall correspond to the team’s willingness to
push itself and make the goal to work. A goal can be both high and realistic
but must be determine by the goal setter willingness and motivation to achieve
Timely
A goal shall be bound
with a time frame, to create a sense of urgency.
Traceable means
that the objective can be traced to another higher level of objective or be
broken down to lower level of objective.
A departmental objective shall be able to be traced to a divisional
objective in a hierarchy.
