For decades, the SMART model has been a staple in objective setting. Its structured approach emphasizes specificity, measurability, attainability, relevance, and time-bound elements. However, in our modern, dynamic business environment, there's a pressing need not just for a model that aids in writing objectives but also in executing them effectively. Enter the 6Bs Model.
Limitations of the SMART Model:
While revolutionary in its time, the SMART model predominantly focuses on the formulation of objectives. It offers little in terms of ensuring effective execution or collaborative input. Moreover, "Relevance" might address the importance of an objective, but it doesn’t inherently communicate the direct value or benefit to the individuals and teams responsible for its achievement.
6Bs Model: A Holistic Approach
The Collaborative Essence of the 6Bs Model:
- Buzz & Benefit: While "Specific" in SMART provides a clear goal, "Buzz" in the 6Bs offers comprehensive articulation. Importantly, "Benefit" surpasses "Relevance" by emphasizing direct advantages for those executing the objectives, thereby enhancing motivation.
Example: "Introduce an AI feature to enhance user experience" becomes more compelling when coupled with direct benefits, such as skill enhancement or recognition.
- Brainstorm & Blueprint: These components significantly address the attainability question. "Brainstorm" encourages ideation, predicting challenges, and strategizing solutions. "Blueprint", akin to SMART's "Measurable", offers a step-by-step roadmap, translating objectives into truly measurable milestones.
Example: Rather than just aiming to "Increase sales by 20% in the next quarter", the Blueprint phase would detail milestones like "Launch two promotional campaigns" or "Enhance after-sales service".
- Buy-in & Backing: Post blueprint creation, the "Buy-in" phase ensures alignment between leaders and teams. This mutual agreement paves the way for efficient execution. Then there's "Backing", addressing the oft-overlooked aspect of SMART: execution support. Leaders are committed to furnishing the resources, tools, and environment crucial for objectives to be realized.
Example: If a blueprint suggests new promotional campaigns, "Buy-in" ensures leadership's support. During "Backing", if teams require new tools or training, they are assured of receiving them.
Conclusion:
Business tools must evolve, just as the business world does. While the SMART model provided a foundational framework, the 6Bs Model builds upon and surpasses it. With an emphasis on collaboration, direct benefits, a clear roadmap, and steadfast support, the 6Bs Model is set to lead teams and businesses to newer and loftier successes.
Interested in Delving Deeper?
The 6Bs Model is transformative, and there's so much more to explore. If you're keen on understanding the entire framework and how it can revolutionize your objective-setting and execution, just write 6Bs Model in the blog comments to send you the entire framework. I'm here to guide and empower you and your team toward success.