6.1.2.2
SMART Evaluation
As discussed earlier, performance measures are used to set desired or targeted levels of service. Targets may be short-term, such as the 2- and 4-year targets state DOTs are required to submit to FHWA, or they may be long-term targets, such as the desired State of Good Repair (SOGR) serving as the basis for an agency’s TAMP.
Performance targets are evaluated using the “SMART” method, which evaluates whether targets are:
- Specific. The performance is explicitly described.
- Measurable. Progress towards the target can be monitored in a consistent manner.
- Achievable. The target considers past performance, expected changes in demand, available resources and other considerations that make it realistic.
- Relevant (also referenced as results-oriented). The target should be meaningful to the agency and drive the right outcomes.
- Time-related (also referenced as timely or time-bound). There is a stated timeframe for achieving the target.