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Step 1
Clarity in a team goal means members easily understood what is involved. The definition of the goal will be specific enough that there is no misunderstanding about what is to be accomplished and the members fully understands what is expected of each of them and the group. With a clear goal, members working towards achieving it will know what they need to do or learn in order to meet the team's objective. Clarification assures the team understands why the goal is a worthwhile and relevant one for them to work towards.
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Step 2
Criteria needs to be spelled out in a goal as the performance measures that must be reached in order for the team to know they have hit their objective. This criterion should be a simple unit of measure stated in quantity or percentage to be accomplished during a specified timeframe that is agreed to by the team. Having a criterion provides regular feedback for the team along the course of their goal timeline so they can make adjustments to their work and behaviors. Without this information, it is hard for the team members to understand any possible reward and recognition structure, develop their own work plans, and ask for help with barriers when necessary
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Step 3
Challenge within the goal is a way to give the team the opportunity to stretch their skills and show what they can do. A meaningful goal should not just maintain the status quo or accomplish a little more than last quarter or year. It needs to motivate the team to stretch themselves without breaking down member spirits or greatly interfering with their quality procedures or work routines. However, the goal should be appropriate to team's history, make sure it is not too small or too large as this can be more damaging to team morale than it is challenging or motivating.
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Step 4
Commitment is only accomplished it the team agrees to the responsibility and accountability of reaching their goal. The best way to get team commitment is for the team to participate in the goal setting process. The team must understand how their goal fits with the organization’s vision, mission, and objectives. For the team to commit to a goal, they must be involved in the decision making process and receive the information they need or training necessary to know what they can accomplish and why it is important to the company.
