The SMART acronym is an excellent way to evaluate your goals and objectives.
Are they Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely
Specific means that the goal is clear and unambiguous. You will need to consider the following.
- What do I want to accomplish?
- The specific reasons or purpose for accomplishing the goal.
- Who is involved and responsible for achieving the goal?
- The requirements and constraints involved.
Measurable.
Establish metrics so that progress can be monitored and you know when you have achieved the goal. Remember if you can’t measure it you can’t manage it!
Attainable.
Can this be achieved? Is it realistic? You can set a stretch goal but not stretched to the point where it cannot be achieved.
Relevant.
This is a necessary goal. The team understands why they are doing this and it ties back to the vision and mission.
Timely.
There is a time frame so that there is a sense of urgency and yet over stressed. You know when the goal needs to be achieved and so you can then develop milestones along the way.
You can use SMART to evaluate your strategic goals but also the goals you set your trade partners and your employees.
About the Author
Denis Leonard
Denis Leonard has a degree in construction engineering, and an M.B.A. and a Ph.D. in quality management. He is a Fellow of the American Society for Quality and has been an Examiner for the Baldrige National Quality Award Board of Examiners, a Judge on the International Team Excellence Competition, and a Lead Judge on the National Housing Quality Award. He has experience as a quality manager in the home building industry as well as construction engineer, site manager, and in training, auditing, and consulting with expertise in strategic and operational quality improvement initiatives. His work has achieved national quality, environmental, and safety management awards for clients.