How do you determine whether an indicator is SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)?

• A. Review the indicator to ensure it is consistent with organizational jargon.
• B. Check each criterion against the indicator’s definition and data collection plan.
• C. Ask stakeholders if they think it is good.
• D. Count how many times it is mentioned in reports.

Answer: (B)

SMART indicators are evaluated by confirming that the indicator’s definition and its data collection plan align with each of the five criteria. Specific means the indicator clearly states what will be measured and for whom, removing ambiguity about what success looks like. Measurable requires a way to quantify or count the indicator, with defined data sources and calculation methods, often including a baseline and a target. Achievable checks that the target is realistic given resources and constraints, and that the data collection plan shows how data will be gathered within those limits. Relevant ensures the indicator connects to the program’s goals and the decisions it should inform. Time-bound means there is a defined timeframe for data collection and for achieving the target, along with a regular reporting cadence. By checking each criterion against the indicator’s own definition and data collection plan, you ensure the metric is both feasible to collect and useful for guiding actions. Relying on jargon consistency, subjective stakeholder opinions, or simply counting mentions in reports doesn’t establish these practical measurement and timing attributes.