Enhancing Organizational Goal Setting
Goals drive business success. When an organization has a vision, mission, and direction tied directly to department and individual goals—you have a recipe for a winning team! Many organizations have historically done this through SMART goals, but have you heard about SMARTIE goals?
SMARTIE is an acronym. Depending on your experience, you may have heard various definitions of this acronym. Regardless of which version of the SMARTIE Acronym you are familiar with, all the options listed below will help, in some way, write better measurable goals. We encourage you and your organization to discuss the best SMARTIE acronym for your organization.
SMARTIE Acronym Versions:
S
Strategic - What are you looking to accomplish?
Specific - What are you looking to achieve? Be very detailed about the 5 W’s!
M
Measurable - This is the agreed-upon standard for determining if the goal was reached. Think—how much, how many, or in terms of quantities.
A
Ambitious – Is this a stretch goal for you?
Aligned - Does the goal align with the organizational plan or your departmental goals?
Action-oriented - Is it achievable? Milestones you can track? Can you get it done in the time you have laid out?
R
Realistic - Can you accomplish your goal? Do you have the time and resources necessary?
Relevant - Does it align with your work? Does it help drive organizational goals forward?
T
Time-bound - Does this goal include a clear deadline? Can you track when it is complete?
I
Inclusive - Does your goal bring traditionally marginalized people into processes, activities, and decision/policy-making in a way that shares power?
E
Equitable - Does your goal include an element of fairness or justice that addresses systemic injustice, inequity, or oppression?
Utilizing the SMARTIE framework for goal setting can significantly contribute to the success of your team. This framework provides a clear path for goal achievement and helps in aligning individual efforts with the overall objectives of the team. With SMARTIE goals, your team can foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and ultimately, achieve greater success.
