Eight Part Smart Targets
Eight Part SMART Targets
You are probably aware of the five part SMART goals setting model, which states you should ensure your goals are:
- Specific.
- Measurable.
- Achievable.
- Realistic.
- Time bound.
Most people reduce SMART goals to a theory that they don't apply in practice.
In this form, the SMART model is too abstract to be of any practical use. To make it practical, you need to make a few additions to it.
Develop it into a series of eight questions and change its name to 8 Part SMART.
This diagram shows how the 8 Part SMART works:
The SMART Goals model suggests 8 SMART questions.
Ask these 8 questions of yourself and others. They are all derived from the SMART method.
- In general terms, what is the goal you want to achieve?
- How would you specify that goal numerically?
- How would you specify and define all your key terms?
- What feedback measures would you need to track?
- What additional abilities; skills, knowledge and experience, do you need to gain?
- What resources; money, technology and people, do you need?
- What is the time deadline?
- And is that deadline reasonable or not?
SMART targets give you clarity
The first and most important ability for you to master is "Clarity of purpose".
You need to decide exactly what you want; and you need to discover exactly what the other person wants.
Only then can you create a mutually beneficial relationship - do business - with each other.
Purpose statement
A purpose statement is a written document that identifies the goals and the plans that will deliver them. The SMART goal identifies the "target to be hit".
You can use the 8 SMART questions in three different ways:
- To set your own goals, for a better future.
- To help others to set their goals.
- To set, communicate and plan for team goals.
Ultimately, the 8 Part SMART model looks like this:
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Definition: 8 Part SMART model
In business goal-setting, the 8 Part SMART model is a method that turns a wish into an action plan by asking eight short questions. It names the goal, sets a number, defines terms, picks feedback, lists needed skills, lists resources, sets a deadline and checks if the time is fair. If any of these eight steps are left out, the model is not used.
Show CG4D Definition
- Uses eight questions to frame every goal
- Ties each question to the SMART idea of clear, numeric and timed targets
- Requires measure, skills, resources and deadline to be named
- Works for personal, team and business aims
Article Summary
The 8 Part SMART model replaces abstract theory with eight simple questions that define the goal, nail the numbers, secure resources, set a fair deadline and give you and your team the clarity to hit every target.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
What are the eight parts in the 8 Part SMART model?
Why add three extra parts to the classic SMART goals model?
How do I turn a vague aim into a specific target with 8 Part SMART?
Can the eight SMART questions help a team agree on goals?
How does clarity of purpose link to the 8 Part SMART method?
Should I write a purpose statement when setting SMART goals?
How do I check if my deadline is realistic under 8 Part SMART?
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Did You Know: Key Statistics
The 2024 LinkedIn Learning Workplace Learning Report shows that 89% of high-performing organisations now use SMART or OKR goal frameworks to guide team priorities. The CIPD Learning at Work Survey 2024 found that firms that give managers formal goal-setting training record a 23% rise in productivity within six months.About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
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Further Reading in Goal Setting
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Eight Part SMART Targets
Learn how the 8 Part SMART model transforms vague aims into clear, measurable and achievable goals, giving you and your team a proven map from idea to result.
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Get There Faster: Our Guide to Achieving Goals by Slowing Down
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12 Steps to Make 2020 Your Best Year Ever
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Six Ways to Make 2021 Your Best Year Ever
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