GOAL VS. OBJECTIVE

##Definitions

A goal is a broad aim you establish to start the business planning process. For example, growing sales revenue in North America can be considered a goal. An objective is a specific milestone that you reach on the way to achieving your goal. For example, expanding your distribution network is an objective used to reach the goal of raising company revenue.

##Discussion

When you discuss a goal, you talk of it in abstract terms. It is something you can use as the basis of a conversation when discussing the activities that can help improve your business. Objectives are put in writing and used to develop the structure of a corporate strategy. A deadline is put in place to reach an objective, and the resources needed to achieve the objective are planned out carefully.