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Starting a new project can be overwhelming. There are tasks to organise, deadlines to meet, and a project team to manage. So how do project managers keep everything on track?
One word: SMART.
SMART goals help break big ideas into clear, manageable steps. If you’re new to project management, this simple tool can make a huge difference.
Let’s explore what SMART goals are, why they matter, and how to use them in your projects.
SMART is an acronym. It stands for:
In simple terms, SMART goals are clear, realistic goals with a deadline. They help you know what needs to be done, how you’ll measure progress, and when it should be finished.
SMART goals can be used throughout the entire Project Lifecycle.
Your goal needs to be clear and with as much detail as possible. Set out the scope, who is responsible and the relevant steps to achieving the goal. For example, “Get better at planning” is not specific, however, “Create a weekly project timeline every Monday morning” is.
How will you know you’ve reached your goal? Use numbers or clear signs, often referred to as project markers or KPIs. This means the goal can be tracked. For example: “Reduce delivery delays by 20% over 3 months.”
Make sure your goal is realistic. You don’t want to aim too high and set your project team up to fail. Ask yourself: Do we have the tools, time, and people to do this? In determining whether it is achievable, consider the project constraints of time, cost and scope (see more on the ‘Triple Constraint’ of project management here).
The goal should matter to your project and business. Don’t add extra tasks just because they sound good. Focus on what helps your project team reach the main goal.
Set a deadline. “Finish by end of June” is time-bound and better than “Finish eventually.” Without a set time, tasks tend to drag on.
SMART goals work in project management because they bring structure and clarity to what can often feel like a messy process. When goals are specific and measurable, everyone in the project team knows exactly what they’re working towards – and how success will be measured. This avoids confusion and helps keep the whole project team aligned.
Making goals achievable ensures you’re setting realistic expectations, which boosts motivation and reduces the chance of burnout. Relevance keeps goals connected to the bigger picture, so you’re not wasting time on tasks that don’t move the project forward. And with a clear deadline, there’s a sense of urgency that helps people stay focused and deliver on time. In short, SMART goals take the guesswork out of managing a project. They help project teams stay organised, track progress, and adjust when needed – without the stress of wondering what’s next. That’s why they’ve become a go-to method for project managers globally.
Even SMART goals can go wrong if you’re not careful. Watch out for:
SMART goals make project management simpler. They give your project team direction, help you plan better, and reduce stress when deadlines start piling up.
Start with one small project. Try setting just one SMART goal and build from there.
Want to learn more about a career in project management? Join our free Project Management Community here.
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