One of the most fundamental business planning principles is to ensure you have SMART goals. That is, goals which are Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. Most students of business can recite these within just a few weeks of starting their course. And it has proved to be a very effective way of planning.
However, in a recent blog Peter Economy challenges the basis of SMART goals, suggesting that while they have served a very useful purpose, they are no longer able to keep pace with the agile and flexible environment of business in today’s world. You can read his article here.
Instead, the suggestion is for CLEAR goals that are suitable for today’s business context, and which are ‘compelling’ for every member of the team. To understand what CLEAR stands for, you need to read the blog, but as a teaser, the first couple of steps are Collaborative, Limited and Emotional.
A challenge this week is to review your goals and see if they meet the CLEAR test.
The Avondale Business School can advise your organisation on being effective in these areas – find out how by contacting Warrick Long at the Avondale Business School.
P: 02 4980 2168