SMART is an acronym that helps us remember how to define our objective.

Specific

The criterion stresses the need for a specific objective. This means the objective is clear and unambiguous. To make objectives specific, they must tell a team exactly what’s expected, why it’s important, who’s involved, where it’s going to happen and which attributes are important.

A specific objective will usually answer the five ‘W’ questions:

• What: What do I want to accomplish?
• Why: Specific reasons, purpose or benefits of accomplishing the goal.
• Who: Who is involved?
• Where: Identify a location.
• Which: Identify requirements and constraints.