The T in S.M.A.R.T.: Time-Bound

Over the past few weeks, we've explored the components of S.M.A.R.T. goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, and Relevant. Now, we turn our attention to the final, crucial element: Time-Bound.

A time-bound goal has a clearly defined deadline or timeframe for completion. This creates a sense of urgency, provides a target to work towards, and helps in tracking progress. Without a time limit, goals can easily drift and lose momentum.

Let's illustrate the importance of being time-bound with a practical example for a 130-employee construction company aiming to increase its overall safety capabilities. To support this overarching goal, we've identified the following specific objectives: certifying 20 safety officers and project managers in First Aid, CPR, and AED; acquiring one AED per job site; acquiring three Confined Space Backboards per job site; conducting 10-hour OSHA training for 100 regular employees; and conducting 30-hour OSHA training for 30 supervisors and managers.

Establishing Timelines and Considerations

Certifying 20 key staff in First Aid/CPR/AED will require at least two classes, given a maximum class size of 12 students. For accounting purposes (Monthly Profit & Loss statements), it's advisable to schedule these classes a month apart—for instance, one at the end of Month 1 and the second at the beginning of Month 2. This helps spread the cost over two reporting periods. Overall, expect this certification process to take approximately two months.

Acquiring equipment, specifically AEDs (around $2,000 each plus shipping and handling) and Confined Space Backboards (about $300 each plus shipping and handling), represents significant expenses requiring careful budgeting. Shipping times for both items typically range from 30 to 45 days. Before placing orders, a critical first step is to conduct an inventory of existing serviceable equipment, current training certifications, and any upcoming or expired certifications. Expect the acquisition and delivery process to take approximately 1.5 months after initial inventory and budgeting are complete.

For OSHA training, the instructor recommends two 5-hour sessions for the 10-hour training for 100 regular employees, and four 8-hour sessions for the 30-hour training for 30 supervisors and managers. To accommodate both training and operational requirements, and considering potential minimum student requirements per instructor, these classes should be spread out. Plan for approximately two to three monthsto complete all OSHA training, depending on scheduling flexibility.

Prioritization and Feasibility

Given these various components, prioritizing is essential for efficient resource allocation and successful completion. A logical prioritization would be to tackle First Aid/CPR/AED certification first, as its fundamental principles are often incorporated into both 10-hour and 30-hour OSHA training, making it a foundational certification. Next would be the 10-hour OSHA training for the majority of employees, followed by the 30-hour OSHA training for supervisors and managers.

Considering these individual timelines, achieving the overall goal of increased safety capabilities within a three-month timeframe appears entirely feasible. This allows for staggered training, equipment delivery, and careful financial planning.

However, can the overall goal be accomplished in one month? It's highly unlikely. The shipping time alone for the safety equipment (30-45 days) extends beyond a one-month window. Furthermore, compressing all the training classes and equipment acquisition into a single month would likely strain resources, impact daily operations, and place a significant financial burden on the company within that short period. Management would need to agree to a substantial upfront expenditure for such a rapid completion.

By setting a realistic and well-thought-out timeframe, the company can effectively plan, allocate resources, and measure progress towards its critical safety objectives. This demonstrates the power of a Time-Bound approach in achieving S.M.A.R.T. goals.

Reference: Ultimate Guide to SMART Goals The Ultimate Guide to S.M.A.R.T. Goals – Forbes Advisor