S.M.A.R.T Goals

              Generally we have come across smart as an adjective, a verb or a noun. But in 1981, this word was given a whole different meaning by George T. Doran. As per this new dimension, SMART is an abbreviation. This abbreviation was framed in connection with goal setting. Now, before exploring each letter of SMART lets define the meaning of GOAL.

              A goal is a general statement about a desired outcome with one or more specific objectives that define in precise terms what is to be accomplished within a designated time frame. A goal may be performance-related, developmental, a special project, or some combination.Now, the next question is what actually goals are? Goals are an essential pillars in continuous improvement as they guide the day-to-day work of staff within an organization.

             Now,lets combine both the words i.e SMART GOALS. What are SMART Goals?

1. SPECIFIC
   This term stresses the need for a specific goal rather than a more general one. This means the goal is clear and unambiguous.To make goals specific, following five W's need to be answered.
   
   1. Who : Who is involved in this process of achieving the goal?
   2. What : What do I want to achieve?
   3. When : By when to achieve the goal?
   4. Where : Where to achieve? This is more like location but sometimes it is not stressed upon so much.
   5. Why :Why the goal has to be achieved?
2. MEASURABLE
   This term is associated with quantifying the goal. The reason behind this is the persons involved should be able to understand by how much the goal is achieved and how much more to be achieved.For example, the finish line in 100mt sprint. Here, the goal is quantified by 100mts.
3. ATTAINABLE
   This term stresses upon the goal being realistic. A goal has to be realistic and attainable as this will help in keeping the team motivated and bring in the positive attitude. On the other hand an unrealistic goal would be meaningless this in turn may bring down the morale of team. For example : I would like to get ABC certification within next two years.
4. RELEVANT
   Goals should be instrumental to the mission of the department (and ultimately, the institution). Why is the goal important? How will the goal help the department achieve its objectives? Develop goals that relate to the staff member’s key accountability or link with departmental goals that align with the institutional strategic goals. For Example: I would like to get ABC certification to join XYZ project.
5. TIME-BOUND
   A goal should have a time-frame for when the specific action will be taken and when it is
   anticipated the goal will be accomplished. Setting a time-frame is vital for it helps manager and also team to keep their actions aligned to the goal. Setting smaller deadlines throughout the time-frame (benchmarks or milestones) is a good idea to measure team's progress toward the goal.
   
   Other possible terms for SMART goals.
   
   

   S	Significant, stretching, simple
   M	Motivational, manageable, meaningful
   A	Appropriate, achievable, agreed, assignable, actionable, adjustable, ambitious, aligned,  aspirational, acceptable, action-focused
   R	Result-based, results-oriented, resourced, resonant, realistic
   T	Time-oriented, time framed, timed, time-based, time-specific,  timetabled, time limited, traceable, tangible, timely