The surge in popularity of goal-setting practices, was reached a few years back with the United Nations translating their 2030 Agenda into 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs require the deployment of interconnected actions spanning policy, education, finance, technology, and citizen’s engagement, all with a central focus on people and the environment. They are interlinked to foster holistic approaches, recognizing that sustainable progress cannot emerge from isolated initiatives, which may unconsciously perpetuate zero-sum outcomes.
For organisations like CEMR, Impact Goals offer a focal point, emphasising long-term activities and the pivotal areas that need attention. This supports Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) and their associations in addressing the intricate challenges facing humanity today. The benefits of framing specific Impact Goals around identified thematic priorities are plentiful. Impact Goals give a sense of direction to the whole organization including its member associations and provide a strong message to external partners, rallying everyone around a shared purpose.
From a managerial perspective, goal setting improves efficiency in tracking progress and supports priority setting when resources are limited. Finally, Impact Goals help us create a solid, consistent narrative on the work we are producing, emphasising its relevance for all member associations regardless of their size, geographical footprint, or EU affiliation.
