S.M.A.R.T Goals

Hey delegates!

In preparation for the conference we wanted to help you familiarize yourselves with what makes up an effective goal or solution in committee. Typically we like to see solutions that follow the model of a S.M.A.R.T goal. Below is an outline with what that looks like!

What is a S.M.A.R.T Goal?

A S.M.A.R.T goal is a goal that essentially asks the who, what, where, when, and why of all objectives being pursued in committee. The below definitions and examples of S.M.A.R.T goals are given in the context of a MUN situation. The acronym stands for the following:

1. Specific: Contains details about what the solution aims to achieve. 

1. Example: A country wants to improve access to water in their country. They would specify the regions they are trying to target, the amount of people they are aiming to aid, and what resources they are looking to provide such as wells or water purification tablets. 

2. Measurable: A quantifiable measurement is provided to ensure the goal’s progress can be tracked.

1. Example: A country wants to combat the effects of deforestation by planting trees. They propose that the global amount of trees be increased by the year 2040. They then specify that they suggest X number of trees be planted per year.

3. Achievable: Potential obstacles are noted and realistic courses of action are proposed.

1. Example: A country wants to reduce hunger and hunger related within their borders. Instead of proposing that nobody ever goes hungry again in their country they would propose that in the appropriate timeframe they see a 10 percent reduction in cases of malnutrition and starvation.

4. Relevant: The small goal being suggested lines up with the larger goals of the United Nations.

1. Example: The goal of FAO is to, “...improve nutrition, increase agricultural productivity, raise the standard of living in rural populations and contribute to global economic growth.” Any smaller goals proposed in committee to address committee topics should stay in line with this mandate.

5. Timely: A timeline, including an end date, is provided for the goal to be achieved.

1. Example: Referencing the tree example above, a country wants to address global deforestation. They propose that X number of trees be planted. Every five years UNEP is told to carry out a survey to determine if the UN is on track for their goal, and by 2040 it can easily be determined if that goal was met.

Why are S.M.A.R.T. goals important? 

Specificity allows both other delegates and your chairs to better appreciate and gain more insight into your country’s policy and position on the topics. The amount of research put into your papers can be highlighted by being specific during speeches and caucus. 

It’s important for solutions to be measurable to demonstrate feasibility. In the real UN feasibility is a must to show NGOs and other donors as well as other countries why they should support a solution. The same idea applies in MUN where delegates should be striving to highlight why their solution warrants backing from other delegates. 

Similar to the reasoning behind measurable, the goal of the committee is to propose achievable solutions because the purpose of collaborating with other delegates is to come up with solutions that will work to address our two topics. The most effective solutions are those that are realistic.

Being relevant in our committee is important because the two topics being discussed fall under the purview of the FAO. Any other topic that is not relevant to our mandate not only does not help address the two topics and further debate, but also is potentially something our committee does not have the power to address in the first place.  

Last but not least, delegates should strive to have a timeline because doing so demonstrates strong research skills, confidence in their solutions, and preparedness in addressing the topics. Breaking down a solution showcases planning and forethought, both concepts necessary for a comprehensive solution to our complex topics.

We hope this has clarified any questions you may have had about creating a successful solution for our conference. If you have any follow up questions or need clarification, please don't be shy! Email us or pop in for office hours and we would be happy to answer you questions.

Citations:

Yasar, Kinza. “What Are Smart Goals?” WhatIs.com, TechTarget, 3 June 2022, https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/SMART-SMART-goals.