Which of the following is an example of a SMART goal? Select one: a. By year-end, the error rate needs to be reduced. b. By year-end, HR needs to improve. c. By month-end, the error rate will be less than 10% d. By November 17 production needs to improve.

The answer is **c. By month-end, the error rate will be less than 10%**.<br /><br />Here's why:<br /><br />SMART goals are:<br /><br />* **Specific:** The goal clearly states what needs to be achieved (reducing the error rate). Option C specifies what needs to be improved (error rate) and to what extent (less than 10%).<br />* **Measurable:** The goal can be quantified and tracked (error rate less than 10%). Option C provides a quantifiable metric (less than 10%).<br />* **Achievable:** The goal is realistic and attainable. We don't know from the options if 10% is achievable, but it's more likely than the vague improvements suggested in other options. Option C at least provides a target that *could* be achievable.<br />* **Relevant:** The goal aligns with overall objectives (presumably, quality improvement). We assume reducing error rates is relevant. Option C, again, is the only one that specifies a target, making it more likely to be relevant.<br />* **Time-bound:** The goal has a deadline (by month-end). Option C provides a clear deadline (month-end).<br /><br />The other options fail to meet one or more of these criteria:<br /><br />* a. By year-end, the error rate needs to be reduced. (Not measurable or specific)<br />* b. By year-end, HR needs to improve. (Not specific or measurable)<br />* d. By November 17 production needs to improve. (Not specific or measurable)<br />