SMART goals were created in 1981 by George T. Doran.
Doran introduced the SMART framework in his November 1981 article, "There's a S.M.A.R.T. Way to Write Management's Goals and Objectives," published in Management Review. He observed that many business objectives lacked focus and impact. He proposed that goals should be:
- Specific: Well-defined and clear.
- Measurable: Quantifiable to track progress.
- Achievable: Realistic and attainable.
- Relevant: Aligned with overall objectives.
- Time-bound: With a defined deadline.
While the acronym and its exact interpretations have evolved over time, Doran's initial article provided the foundation for the SMART goal-setting methodology widely used today. The aim was to move away from vague, amorphous aspirations and toward concrete, actionable, and measurable objectives that would demonstrably contribute to organizational success. He emphasized that goals were not simply abstract ideals but tangible targets that, when achieved, would propel the organization forward.
