Which of the following is a component of SMART goals?

Measurable is a key component of SMART goals, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The purpose of the "Measurable" aspect is to provide a clear criterion for tracking progress and determining when the goal has been achieved. By establishing specific metrics or benchmarks, individuals and teams can evaluate their advancement towards the goal effectively.

For example, if a police department sets a goal to reduce response times, specifying "by 15% within the next year" makes it measurable. This allows for an objective assessment of whether the goal has been reached, facilitating accountability and motivation.

In contrast, the other choices lack essential qualities that contribute to effective goal-setting; being general does not provide clear direction, being flexible can lead to ambiguity regarding what has been achieved, and being ambiguous makes it difficult to assess progress or success. Thus, the focus on measurable outcomes is vital for ensuring goal clarity and accountability.