The document discusses how to write SMART objectives that are specific, measurable, attainable, results-oriented, and timely in order to effectively plan work and measure progress, provides examples of poorly written objectives that are too broad or not measurable, and illustrates well-written objectives that clearly define who will do what by when and to what standard.

1. Objective
Setting

2. What is an Objective?
• Objective – something which you plan to do or achieve; an
aim or a purpose.
“The difference between where we are (current status) and
where we want to be (vision and goals) is what we do
(target objectives and action plans)”

3. S.M.A.R.T Objectives
• Specific
• Measurable
• Attainable
• Results Oriented
• Timely
Once we have created SMART objectives we can then assign
them to the appropriate Performance Dimension

4. Examples of Poorly Written Objectives
• Too broad/general
• Not measurable
• Open to interpretation
• Not timely
• Examples:
– Improve customer service
– Increase sales revenue
– Improve communication skills
– Improve efficiency

5. Writing S.M.A.R.T Objectives
• Objectives are meant to be realistic targets
• Objectives are written in an active tense, using strong verbs
like plan, write, conduct, produce, etc.
• They will always answer the following question:
“WHO is going to do WHAT, WHEN, and TO WHAT
STANDARD?”

6. Example of a Well Written Objective
“Meet with all staff twice a year to conduct performance reviews”
• Specific – Individuals know exactly what is to be achieved.
• Measurable – “twice a year” – quantity or quality. Goals can be
tracked and reviewed
• Attainable – Goals are reasonable & achievable
• Results Oriented – support goals of department and vision of
organization
• Timely – Goals to be achieved within a specific timeframe

7. Example of a Well Written Objective
“Take M004 (Conflict Management) course through
Metroland Talent Development on April18th, 2012”
• Specific – outlines action to take
• Measurable – course completion
• Attainable – reasonable within job requirement
• Results oriented – course application
• Timely – specific date

8. Example of a Well Written Objective
“Increase sales revenue by 10% over
previous year (2011) by the end of 2012”
• Specific – 10%
• Measurable – year over year
• Attainable – reasonable within job requirement
• Results Oriented – tied to organization’s overall objective
• Timely – end of 2012

9. Writing Objectives Summary
In all cases, work objectives
should be
clear, measurable, and timely
statements of the work to be
accomplished and the results
expected from that work.