SMART is an acronym used to help us set clear goals and key results.
SMART
- S-Specific: The goal clearly defines the outcomes to be delivered, with any necessary interpretation agreed on by the employee and the manager in advance.
- M-Measurable and trackable: The achievement of the goal can be objectively assessed and tracked according to pre-determined and applicable measurements and benchmarks.
- A-Audacious/Ambitious but achievable: The goal is challenging and motivating but also it needs to be achievable. To be attainable, the employee has to have the resources, time, and access to people, data, etc., to allow her to achieve the goal.
- R-Relevant. The goal has to address work and results that clearly align with the goals of the team, the department/division, and the organization as a whole.
- T-Time-bound/Time-limited. The goal clearly specifies a delivery date or schedule.
SMARTER
Some leaders expand SMART to SMARTER to include two additional important aspects of effective goal setting and attainment. These are Evaluation and Review.
- Specific
- Measurable and trackable
- Audacious/ambitious but achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
- Evaluate
- Review
Other Formulations of SMART and SMARTER
- Specific (simple, sensible, significant, small in number).
- Measurable (meaningful, motivating).
- Achievable (agreed, attainable).
- Relevant (reasonable, realistic and resourced, results-based).
- Time-bound (time-based, time-limited, time/cost limited, timely, time-sensitive).
- Evaluated
- Reviewed