Agreeing objectives
Being SMART
SMART objectives suit some types of work more than others, but are a useful checklist to ensure that expectations are clearly defined.
| Criteria | What should it do? |
|---|---|
| Specific | Does it identify exactly what needs to be achieved? Objectives can be outcomes (what needs to be delivered or achieved) or behaviours (how outcomes should be achieved) |
| Measurable | How will you know if and when it has been achieved? How will progress be assessed? How will performance be evaluated? |
| Achievable | Is it realistic given the resources available and the knowledge, skills, and behaviour of those tasked with delivering it? Is further development or support required? Is the objective being allocated to the right people? |
| Relevant | Will it help the team/department to achieve its aims? Does it support the wider aims of the University? |
| Time-bound | Does it have a clear, agreed date for completion or review? |