A goal is a future expectation that the organization is striving to accomplish. The meaning of the goal can be interpreted differently by different people. It can be used in a broad sense to refer to the overall purpose of an organization. A goal may be used to refer more specific desired accomplishment.
Goal-setting ideally involves establishing specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-targeted objectives (SMART). The Goal – Setting Theory, which was first examined by Edwin, A. Locke has proved an effective tool for making progress by ensuring that participants have a clear awareness of what they must do to achieve or help achieve an objective.
Functions of Goals
-Goals provide a standard of performance. They focus attention on the activities of the organization and the direction of the staffs.
-Goals provide a basis for planning and control related to the activities of the organization.
-Goals influences the structure of the organization and help to determine the nature of technology employed.
-Goals are basis for objectives and policies of the organization
-Goals are important feature of work organization. Goals should be stated clearly, emphasized and communicated to all employees of the organization in order to achieve effectiveness.
-Goals help to develop commitment of individuals and group to the activities of the organization. They focus attention on purposeful behavior and provide a basis for motivation and reward system.
Classification of Organization