What is an objective?

• A. Something an organization discourages or avoids
• B. Something an organisation sets out to achieve
• C. A legal requirement for directors
• D. An external performance benchmark

Answer: (B)

An objective is a specific target an organisation sets to achieve, usually stated in measurable terms, within a set timeframe, and aligned with its overall strategy. It turns a general aim into something concrete you can plan for and assess. Because objectives are clear and measurable, they guide what actions to take, how to allocate resources, and how to judge success.

The other ideas don’t fit as well. Disallowing or avoiding something is a constraint, not an objective. A legal requirement for directors describes duties or obligations, not a target the organisation aims to reach. An external performance benchmark is a standard for comparison, not the target itself—though you might choose to aim to meet or beat a benchmark as an objective.