Summary

In this episode of the Social Impact Solutions podcast, Lauren and John Mark discuss the importance of developing measurable goals and objectives for nonprofits. They emphasize the significance of SMART goals, which are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. The conversation highlights the need for team involvement in goal setting, the challenges organizations face in creating measurable objectives, and the overall impact of measurement on nonprofit success. The hosts provide practical strategies and frameworks to help organizations effectively measure their impact and communicate it to stakeholders.

Takeaways

Measurable goals are critical for nonprofits, especially in competitive funding environments.
SMART goals provide a clear framework for setting objectives.
Team involvement in goal setting fosters ownership and accountability.
Creating measurable goals should not be a difficult process.
Regularly reviewing goals helps organizations adapt to changing circumstances.
Impact measurement is essential for attracting funding and support.
Clear communication of goals can engage stakeholders effectively.
Frameworks like SMART goals are widely accepted and beneficial.
Setting big goals can inspire teams but requires careful planning.
Understanding community needs is crucial for effective program design.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Measurable Goals and Objectives
02:46 Understanding SMART Goals
05:54 Building SMART Goals: Framework and Examples
11:54 The Importance of Specificity in Goals
19:32 Challenges in Creating Measurable Goals
22:52 The Impact of Measurement on Nonprofits