Understanding the Difference Between Goals and Objectives
Before beginning the grant writing process, it is critical that a grant writer is able to effectively distinguish between an agency’s goals and objectives regarding the proposal. Clear goals and objectives allow the grant writer to adequately explain what the agency intends to do in the near future and what they would like to see occur as a result of those actions. Goals are things that respond to specific needs or issues within an organization, community, etc. Conversely, objectives are statements that represent outcomes that one plans to attain and that will occur as a result of those actions.
There are two main types of objectives one may encounter, which are process and outcome objectives. Process objectives specify ideas that will be implemented in order to create change. They elaborate on expected advancements and pinpoint how much service will be received. On the other hand, outcome objectives are measurable goals that meticulously identify what will occur as a result of the intervention. Moreover, this type of objective should be more specific in nature and include significant details such as a time frame, a target group the outcome will affect, and a geographic location.
When taking on the role of a grant writer it is important to consider an agency’s goals and objectives in order to demonstrate how one will meet those objectives and achieve those goals with the potential funding at hand.
