Task-based objectives
Featured in the Setting Objectives and Seeing Them Through training manual
By Beverley Williams
Category: Performance Management
Credit price: 3 download credits (Single user)
Task-based objectives normally relate to discrete tasks or projects with a clearly stated outcome. There are many benefits associated with working task based objectives as opposed to developmental objectives. For example, it is far easier to apply SMART to a task-based objective and it is easier to list tangible achievements than to measure the benefits of improving the skills of team members. However, it is extremely important to get the balance right between achieving task-based objectives and achieving developmental objectives. Often these two aspects of setting objectives and seeing them through are inextricably linked; at other times the developmental aspect can be built in. It’s also important to accept that not all task-based objectives can always contain a developmental aspect.
You open the training activity by explaining that objectives can be broadly divided into two main areas; task-based objectives and developmental objectives. You agree definitions. Then you run pairs exercises during which participants examine the benefits and potential problems of task-based objectives. This is followed by a discussion where participants consider what proportion of the objectives set should be task-based objectives and what proportion should be developmental objectives. Next, participants work in groups on a case study that asks them to examine task-based objectives and the profiles of team members. They assess the situation with a view to achieving the objective plus developing team members where appropriate if this is a sensible option. They make recommendations based on their assessment, which are formally presented to other groups. Finally, you close by covering the key learning points of the training activity.
Who is it for: This training resource is intended for use by trainers to show participants the benefits of task-based objectives while raising awareness of the problems associated with an overly task-orientated approach. Task-based objectives relate to discrete tasks or projects with clearly stated outcomes.
| Resource Type: | Activity |
| Min Group Size: | 4 |
| Max Group Size: | 10 |
| Typical Duration: | 02:20:00 |
| No of Pages: | 18 |
Resources: View standard resources for Fenman training activities
Purpose: This training resource is intended for use by trainers with all members of staff as everyone needs to understand objectives and how they can be used. Most important for participants who manage others in some capacity, as this understanding is crucial for these people. Participants should already have covered ‘Objectives: What they are and why they exist’ and ‘Introducing the SMART objective’. This training activity should be run in conjunction with ‘Developmental objectives’, to give participants and understanding of both sides of the task-based/developmental situation.
Download the training activity, Task-based objectives as featured in the Fenman training manual; Setting Objectives and Seeing Them Through