S.M.A.R.T Objectives

There are a couple of ways you will come across to develop good objectives.

The most common method used to write good objectives is called:

"SMART" OBJECTIVES

"S"pecific:

The statement describing the desired result has to be clear and concise.  It has to relate to the overall purpose of the meeting.  Broad terms and words should be avoided

“M”easurable

Objectives must be worded in such way that the desired results can be measured or observed

For example:

List in order the 9 phases of meeting planning                (Measurable)

Know the 9 phases of meeting planning                          (Too Vague), can’t be measured

 “A”ttainable

Objectives must be realistic – you do not want to set the standard so high you set yourself up for failure…

Example:

It is fine to want to make a surplus for the organization but don’t set the objective at $250,000.00 when you traditionally never get over $50,000

Don’t set an objective of 400 participants, when realistically you should be looking at 200 attendees

In short – do NOT set yourself or the organization up for failure. Conversely don’t make them so easy, there is no challenge in accomplishing the results.

“R”elevant

Objectives must be relevant to the information presented at the meeting:

Example

If the meeting is a sales meeting designed to communicate new product offerings;  relevant objectives must relate to this purpose.

What are some things you must consider to ensure relevancy… location and site, budget, program content, pattern and agenda too