Goals serve as a compass in any type of project they can help justify the investment of time and resources. However, setting vague or unrealistic goals can be harmful.
The question is: how to proceed?
Through the SMART approach. This methodology shows an intelligent way to set and achieve goals. It is applicable in many fields, including education and teaching. This method is real must before launching any project. How can it be used to find solid and meaningful goals for your business?
Definition of SMART goals
George T. Doran created the SMART method in 1981. It is a concept developed to facilitate the formulation of clear and measurable goals. These are useful in establishing an effective action plan when implementing a project. Goals must be easy to understand by the concerned parties.
To fully grasp what a SMART goal is, one must first understand the acronym “SMART.” It consists of five letters representing five important criteria:
Specific
A specific goal must be set so that the concerned parties understand its purpose.
Measurable
The goal should include measurable figures, allowing one to determine whether it has been achieved.
Achievable or Acceptable
A good goal must be acceptable and achievable with the available human and financial resources. If it’s too ambitious, it can lead to discouragement or frustration. on the other hand, setting goals that are too unambitious can result in a loss of motivation and interest.
Realistic
According to the SMART method, the goal must be both relevant and pragmatic. It should be adapted to the available resources and not out of reach.
Time-bound
It is necessary to set a deadline to determine if the SMART goals have been achieved.
Steps to formulate SMART goals
Setting SMART goals begins with defining a project. Depending on the plan, a specific goal is needed. then, the five SMART criteria mentioned above should be applied. Here are the steps to follow:
Define the goals to be achieved
The first task when applying the SMART method is to formulate a goal. Then, make it specific by asking questions like: what is the goal to achieve? why is it important? how can you be sure the goal is achievable? Ideally, you should write down your goals in a single document. Edusign offers a downloadable template if needed.
Specify measurable indicators
This time, apply the second SMART criterion, which quantifies progress at a given moment by asking: how can success be measured? what measurement indicators should be used based on the type of goal? what tools will evaluate the progress? for influencers, for example, success is measured by the number of “likes” or followers. Trainers use tests to assess positive progress. A time frame should be set for the first evaluation.
Ensure the goal is achievable
Goals should be realistic and achievable, yet ambitious. To set concrete goals that meet this criterion, ask: do available skills, resources, and time allow the goals to be met? what obstacles and constraints could arise? can they be overcome?
Ensure relevance according to context
This ensures qualitative and realistic goals: do they align with the company’s long-term values and needs? Do they meet the real needs of the company or target audience?
Set a deadline
It is necessary to set a deadline to measure progress. At the end of this period, evaluate whether all the goals have been met.
Why apply the SMART method?
Why is it important to set SMART goals for a training organization? Offering effective programs is the aim of all providers in the field of professional training. The goal is for trainees to improve their skills. The new knowledge they acquire will help develop their careers.
Implementing SMART goals helps design a successful training program that satisfies the target audience.
How to verify if goals meet SMART criteria?
First, present SMART goals to the concerned parties. After sharing clear goals, evaluate the project’s progress regularly. Evaluating the success of the project is the final task. Success means achieving the goals. If failure occurs, identify areas for improvement and make the necessary adjustments.
