Writing SMART Results Expectations

S
The expectation is specific if it is clearly written so that it is easily
understood by the employee.
The employee can define what is to be done, the rational or benefit
related to the meeting the outcome or goal, and what requirements are
necessary. Since not all tasks are listed, the employee will also need to
know other steps that may be necessary to meet the goal and how this
expectation fits with the work of others.
M
The expectation is measurable if it covers at least one measure of a
quality metric, quantity, time and/or cost effectiveness. Measurable
means not merely meeting a standard but evaluating how well the
standard needed to reached. Without a specific measure, the employee
is not able to self-monitor how they are doing related to their
performance or achieving the work units results.
Measurement is also important to know how the work is tracked or
monitored and whether the employee and supervisor need to discuss
adjustments to the expectation or the work being done.
A
The expectation is attainable by the employee if it is appropriate to the
employees job level. It allows for some stretch so that the employee
will neither exceed the expectation too easily nor not be able to reach
the successful level. It encourages the employees to push themselves to
meet the work units goals.
It is within the employees ability and resources to achieve. It is action-
oriented and shows how the expectation aligns with the work unit goals.
R
The expectation is realistic if it is within reach of the employee to meet
the expectation.

T
The expectation is time bound if it can be accomplished within the work
cycle.
It can also be tracked and monitored with the employee during the
period of the cycle.


Doran, G. T. (1981). There's a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management's goals and objectives.
Management Review, Volume 70, Issue 11(AMA FORUM), pp. 35-36.