SMART Objective Framework in Research Methodology

The specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-bound (S.M.A.R.T./SMART) framework helps you form your research objective.

The SMART framework used for forming a research objective can be summarised as follows:

1. Specific: It should be specific; this will save time and keep you on the correct path. 

2. Measurable: It should be measurable, that is, it should quantify the targets and benefits. 

3. Achievable: The research objective should be such that you are able to attain it, considering the resources and time at your disposal, without compromising on the quality. 

4. Realistic: It should be real and practical so that it can be visualised and achieved.

5. Time-bound: It should be achievable within a specific time frame.

An example of a SMART research objective for a marketing manager (assuming they have the relevant time and resources) is ‘to find the most appropriate marketing channel for their company that can achieve the highest ROI within a year'.

Proposing solutions to research objectives or questions is an iterative process; hence, you might need to make the necessary changes to the objectives or questions to prepare a good research study.