The SMART framework is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. Whenever you set a goal, always keep these parameters in mind to follow the SMART framework. By setting SMART goals, you ensure that your objectives are achievable and easily understood by all team members.
Moreover, the SMART model can be utilized to review and improve goals throughout the project's duration.
Benefits of setting SMART goals
Creating goals for a major project can be overwhelming. It can be difficult to visualize each step in advance, which leads to objectives that are too ambiguous or unfeasible.
However, SMART goals provide a solution by allowing you to define clear, actionable and effective objectives. Working with a team becomes more streamlined when using SMART goals as it helps everyone agree on the objectives and adhere to deadlines. Moreover, introducing new employees is easier as there is no need for extensive training, and stakeholders can be quickly informed by sharing the SMART Goals Template.
Set your own SMART goals
FigJam's whiteboard tool provides an ideal platform to create and share your team's SMART goals. Start by choosing the SMART Goals template, and follow these steps to complete each section:
S - Specific
What is your desired outcome?
To be specific, generate as many ideas as possible to recognize patterns and define the precise objective you want to achieve. Be cautious not to make it too general; instead, focus on a specific area.
While brainstorming, use sticky notes to jot down ideas, move them around the board as necessary, and organize them using shapes and frames.
M - Measurable
What is the criteria for achieving your goal?
Ensure that your objectives are measurable by including details, metrics, and performance indicators. Take note of anything you want to monitor. Adding templates like Gantt charts, milestone charts or action plans can provide a more comprehensive project overview.
A - Attainable
How can the goal be achieved?
To make your goals attainable, break them down into smaller steps and prioritize them so that you can achieve results efficiently. Additionally, consider whether the objectives are realistic given constraints such as financing.
R - Relevant
Will the goal meet your short and long-term requirements?
To guarantee that your goals are relevant, align them with your company's objectives, mission, and vision. You can seek input from leaders by sharing your goals easily.
T - Timely
When will the goal be achieved?
Assign a deadline to each goal, whether it is short-term ("what can I do today?") or long-term ("what can I do in six months?"). Time-bound goals ensure that lofty ideas are broken down into achievable steps and make milestone tracking more effective.
Example of a practical SMART goal framework
Here is a practical example of how to implement the SMART Goal framework in the context of marketing:
GOAL: The marketing team will enhance brand awareness by 5% this quarter by revamping the content strategy and generating new content that boosts lagging brand awareness.
Specific: Enhance brand awareness by 5%.
Measurable: Failure to revamp content strategy, creating new content, or achieving less than 5% means they have not met their goal.
Attainable: The team has identified the necessary steps required to achieve this objective.
Relevant: The team acknowledges that their present brand awareness is inadequate.
Time-based: The team aims to achieve its goal by the end of the quarter.
