How should strategic goals be characterized?

Strategic goals should be characterized as specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely (often referred to as SMART goals). This framework ensures that goals are clear and provide a structured approach to planning and execution. Each component of the SMART criteria serves an important purpose:

• Specific: Goals should be clearly defined so that everyone understands what is to be achieved.

• Measurable: There should be criteria in place to assess progress and success, allowing for adjustments as needed.

• Achievable: Goals should be realistic and attainable, considering the resources and constraints available.

• Realistic: While ambitious goals can motivate, they should remain within the realm of possibilities to ensure continuous engagement and effort.

• Timely: Setting a timeframe for achieving the goals creates a sense of urgency and helps prioritize tasks.

This approach facilitates effective planning and supports a focused effort towards achieving the organization's objectives. In contrast, vague, open-ended, or overly broad goals can lead to ambiguity and misalignment, hindering progress and accountability. Similarly, unidirectional goals may create confusion about priorities and outcomes if team members do not understand the overall strategic direction.