What does the acronym "SMART" stand for in setting evaluation objectives?

The acronym "SMART" in setting evaluation objectives is a widely accepted framework that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely.

• Specific means that the objectives should be clear and specific, targeting a particular area for improvement. This clarity helps in understanding the goals and expectations.

• Measurable indicates that there should be quantifiable criteria to assess progression towards the goal. This allows for tracking progress and establishing whether the objective has been achieved.

• Achievable denotes that the objective should be realistic and attainable, ensuring that it is possible to achieve it within the available resources and constraints. This prevents setting up for failure with overly ambitious goals.

• Relevant ensures that the objectives matter to the individual or organization and align with other goals or priorities that are significant to those involved. This relevance increases motivation and commitment.

• Timely refers to setting a clear timeframe for achieving the objectives. This encourages a sense of urgency and accountability.

By ensuring that objectives are framed using these five criteria, individuals and organizations can create more effective and impactful goals that enhance their performance and accountability.