Explain in brief the term 'objectives' as part of strategic intent. Also outline the characteristics, the objectives of a company must possess to be…

Objectives are an organization's performance targets – the results and outcomes it wants to achieve. They function as yardstick for tracking an organization's performance and progress. Objectives with strategic focus relate to outcomes that strengthen an organization's overall business position and competitive vitality. Objectives, to be meaningful to serve the intended role, must possess the following characteristics: Objectives should define the organisation's relationship with its environment.They should be facilitative towards achievement of mission and purpose.They should provide the basis for strategic decision-making.They should provide standards for performance appraisal.They should be concrete and specific.They should be related to a time frame.They should be measurable and controllable.They should be challenging.Different objectives should correlate with each other.Objectives should be set within the constraints of organisational resources and external environment.