Forum: Primary objectives versus secondary objectives
In project management, it is essential to know the primary and secondary objectives.
Can you share an example of a primary and secondary objective that are linked but not the same?
Consider the following: A primary objective is an ultimate target the project intends to achieve. The raison detre is the reason the project exists and is directly linked to the problem statement. It is the reference point measured to determine the projects value and benefits.
The consequential target is the secondary objective(s), of which there should be as few as possible, and it is not the primary goal. Though the secondary objectives are lower priority, they are essential to the strategy of a successful project. In short, the secondary goal can provide incremental synergies to support the primary objective.
For example, suppose the primary objective is to reduce the time it takes to deliver a product to market by 10%. If it currently takes 50 days to get to market, we want to strive to deliver within 45 days. If employee absenteeism is the root cause of longer delivery cycles, then reducing absenteeism by 10% is a secondary goal. Achieving the secondary goal would help in reaching the primary objective. But, if the assumption is incorrect, then improvements in employee attendance will not lead to a faster delivery time.
Note: You may attach a link to an article or case study that is relevant in illustrating your point, but it is unnecessary if your point is clear.
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