Desired Outcomes & Goals

Desired Outcomes is the impact that an organization aims to achieve as a result of reaching its business goals—they are less tied to quantifiable metrics than Goals. 

• Desired Outcomes should focus on the world that results from achieving an organization’s goals.

Goals are specific, measurable objectives set out to achieve within a defined timeframe. Goals can vary widely depending on the organization's size, industry, and market position but typically focus on areas such as growth, profitability, market share, customer satisfaction, innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility.

• Goals should be S.M.A.R.T.—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound‍
• Goals should focus on financial performance, operational efficiency, stakeholder engagement and satisfaction, social impact and sustainability.

• Desired outcomes are established to guide the direction of the company, inform communications and provide a framework for strategic planning, goals, and KPIs
• Goals translate the abstract outcomes into tangible results, providing a clear picture of success. They serve as benchmarks for evaluating the effectiveness of strategies and operations, helping organizations to measure progress and make necessary adjustments.
• By clearly articulating goals and desired outcomes, organizations can ensure that they remain focused on what matters most. Together, Goals and Desired Outcomes provide a roadmap for strategic and operational planning, motivate employees by giving them clear targets to aim for, and facilitate the monitoring and evaluation of performance over time.