Objectives Craft

A problem is simply a project in disguise,
The way you define problems shape the range of solution options,
Can you get at root causes? 
Why not zoom on the right problem?

At the start, ask yourself:

Four Critical Strategic Questions:

1. What Are We Trying To Accomplish And Why? (Objectives)
2. How Will We Measure Success? (Measures and Verifications)
3. What Other Conditions Must Exist? (Assumptions)
4. How Do We Get There? (Inputs)

Objective:

• Generic term to describe project intention 
• Has a precise particular meaning 
• Demanding craft: Seldom straightforward 
• Synthesized by careful use of language – State each objective in a sentence using chosen verbs and descriptive phrases 

Levels of objectives:

1. Goal: High-level/ big picture
2. Purpose: The most critical part of project design. The impact you anticipate by doing the project. The expected change from producing the outcome. The “lynchpin” that connects the outcome to the goal. The vital and desired result or impact – The motivation behind the project. 
   Behind every project is a purpose. 
3. Outcome: Specific results by managing inputs – from implementing the series of inputs. Functioning systems or processes or end-products.  (approx~ 3-7) outcomes per project. Recommended to let them evolve intelligently.  Use past tense to describe them. Questions that can help to figure them out:
   1. What are the main deliverables? 
   2. What to make to achieve the purpose? 
   3. What end results to hold the team accountable for? 
4. Input: Activities and resources to produce an outcome. Action steps to produce outcomes.

(*) The outcome-to-purpose logic is the heart of the project.

The logic behind these levels
If you manage input then you will produce the outcome
If you deliver the outcome then you will achieve the purpose
If you achieve purpose then you will contribute to the goal
Assumptions are uncertain factors that are necessary to complete the logical linkage. May be beyond your direct control! Take note and tackle them as early as possible

Inspired from Strategic Project Management Made Simple

Farewell for now