Which example best illustrates a SMART goal?

Which example best illustrates a SMART goal?

• A. Increase customer on-time delivery by 15% within 90 days.
• B. Improve performance.
• C. Do better.
• D. Reduce errors.

Answer: (C)

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The best example shows all five clearly: it specifies what will improve (on-time delivery), quantifies the improvement (a 15% increase), sets a deadline (within 90 days), and ties the target to a meaningful outcome for customers and operations. This clarity lets you track progress, judge success, and stay focused on a realistic objective. The other options are too vague to coach real performance. “Improve performance” doesn’t state what to improve, by how much, or by when. “Do better” is even less precise, offering no measurable target or timeframe. “Reduce errors” mentions a desired outcome but lacks a specific amount to reduce and a deadline, so it isn’t a measurable, time-bound goal.

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The best example shows all five clearly: it specifies what will improve (on-time delivery), quantifies the improvement (a 15% increase), sets a deadline (within 90 days), and ties the target to a meaningful outcome for customers and operations. This clarity lets you track progress, judge success, and stay focused on a realistic objective.

The other options are too vague to coach real performance. “Improve performance” doesn’t state what to improve, by how much, or by when. “Do better” is even less precise, offering no measurable target or timeframe. “Reduce errors” mentions a desired outcome but lacks a specific amount to reduce and a deadline, so it isn’t a measurable, time-bound goal.