Every organization and business has goals they aim to achieve. These goals can be strategic, tactical, and/or operational.
-Strategic goals are broad goals and generally encompass where the organization wants to be in long term and short term future.
-Tactical goals are goals that define expected outcomes of major divisions in an organization in order to reach the overall goals.
-Operational goals are specific, measurable results expected from divisions within an organization.
While goals are set, they must conform to the ‘S.M.A.R.T goals’ principle for potency and feasibility.
The S.M.A.R.T Principle
S- Specific. M- Measurable. A- Achievable. R- Realistic. T- Time-bound
Specific
Goals must be well defined, clear and unambiguous. Questions like: Who is involved; what is to be accomplished; where it is to be achieved; when it should be achieved; and why it should be achieved, should be answered to make a goal specific.
Measurable
Specific factors and criteria that indicate goal progress should be acknowledged. How much/many; what indicates my goal has been achieved; what are the KPIs (key performance indicators)?
Achievable
Sometimes we put faith, sentiments and whatnot when setting goals. Goals must be attainable and feasible. Which means questions like; do I have the resources and capabilities to achieve this goal? must have positive answers. Otherwise, indicate what is missing and the feasibility of the goal i.e. have others successfully done it?
Realistic
Though philosophy tells us that nothing is impossible, goals must be feasible, realistic and highly relevant to the organization’s purpose. Does it match efforts and needs; is tis the right time; is it worthwhile; is it farfetched?
Time-Bound
Goals must have a clearly defined timeline. Deadlines start dates and target dates are necessary when setting goals.
In summary, organizational goals must posses these qualities, and the success of every organization depends on their ability to reach their set goals.
