Resource:

Setting Smart Objectives

Monday 30 March 2020

What are SMART Objectives? Find out how you can apply the acronym against your organisations strategy to improve performance and time management.

There are a number of different versions of the acronym with different terms associated with some of the letters as indicated in the table below. They should be based on organisational strategy and be aligned with corporate vision, mission and values.

They can be set at the level of the whole organisation or at divisional, department, team or individual levels.

  • SMART objectives came into place back in 1955 and are now firmly established within most successful companies and sit comfortably alongside most end of year appraisals.
  • An objective is a statement which describes what an individual, team or organisation is hoping to achieve.

 

Definition Of Smart Objectives
S Definition Of Smart Objectives Objectives should be specific. They should be outlined in a clear statement of precisely what is required, describing the result that is desired in a way that is, detailed, focused and well defined.
M Measurable  Measurement is hugely important because it will enable you to know whether an objective has been achieved. Therefore, include a measure to enable organisations to monitor progress and to know when the objective has been achieved.
A Achievable
(or agreed)		 An objective can be said to be achievable if the necessary resources are available or similar results have been achieved by others in similar circumstances. Design objectives to be challenging, but ensure that failure is not built into objectives. Objectives should be agreed by managers and employees to ensure commitment to them.
R  Realistic
(or relevant)		 The concepts of 'realistic' and 'achievable' are similar and this may explain why some use the term 'relevant' as an alternative. Focus on outcomes rather than the means of achieving them.
T  Time-bound It is necessary to set a date or time by which the objective should have been accomplished or completed and this contributes to making objectives measurable. Therefore, agree the date by which the outcome must be achieved.

Download the full checklist:

Setting Smart Objectives

Chaotic change, accelerating diversity, and listening with our hearts

Ann Francke OBE speaks to Salman Amin, CEO of Pladis, about the many challenges of running a global business during Covid-19

How to think on your feet: lead better with the secrets of improvised comedy

Check out this five-minute masterclass from one of the UK’s top comedy improvisers on how you can get in the moment

Four techniques for developing your leadership ‘muscle’

Like all muscles, leadership needs exercise. And sometimes that exercise will hurt.

Digital, flexible, staggered: the inside story of the new workplace

Companies everywhere are reviewing their flexible working policies as they grapple with the new normal. We spoke to Buzzfeed

Resource

The information on this page is designed to help you to develop ever more compelling business proposals and presentations. Take a look at our selection of tools which could help support you.

Members See More

CMI Members have access to thousands of online learning and CPD resources. Learn more about our membership benefits

Join The Community

CMI offers a variety of flexible membership solutions, tailored to your needs. Find out more and get involved in the CMI community today.