How to identify WIGS
Identifying widely important goals (WIGs) is a critical step in setting
priorities and focusing efforts on what truly matters. Here's a step-by-step
guide on how to identify WIGs:
1. Clarify Your Purpose and Vision: Start by defining your overall
purpose and vision. What are you or your organization trying to
achieve in the long term? Understanding your larger purpose will
help you align your WIGs with your broader goals.
2. Review Your Strategic Plan: If you have a strategic plan in place,
review it. Look for the key strategic objectives and initiatives that are
most critical to your success. These can serve as a starting point for
identifying your WIGs.
3. Consider Your Key Metrics: Think about the key performance
indicators (KPIs) that are most relevant to your objectives. These
could be financial metrics, customer satisfaction scores, employee
engagement, or any other measurable factors that indicate success.
4. Prioritize Impact: Identify which of your strategic objectives or KPIs
have the most significant impact on your long-term success. These
should be the ones that, if achieved, would have the most positive
influence on your organization.
5. Assess Feasibility: Evaluate the feasibility of achieving each potential
WIG. Consider the resources, time, and effort required. It's important
that your WIGs are challenging but attainable.
6. Quantify the Goal: Ensure that each WIG is specific and measurable.
Define it in a way that allows you to track progress and know when
you've achieved it. Use metrics, numbers, and clear targets.
7. Set a Timeframe: Establish a timeframe or deadline for achieving
your WIGs. This adds a sense of urgency and helps with
accountability.
8. Align with Values and Strategy: Ensure that your WIGs align with
your organization's values and strategic priorities. They should be
consistent with your overall mission and direction.
9. Limit the Number: To maintain focus, it's recommended to limit the
number of WIGs to a small, manageable set, often no more than 2-3.
This prevents dilution of resources and attention.
10. Communicate and Cascade: Share your WIGs with your team or
organization. Ensure that everyone understands their role in
achieving these goals and how their work contributes to them. Create
alignment throughout the organization.
11. Track and Measure Progress: Establish a system for tracking and
measuring progress toward your WIGs. Regularly review and update
your metrics to ensure you're on track.
12. Adapt and Iterate: As circumstances change, be prepared to adapt
your WIGs. It's important to regularly reassess their relevance and
adjust them as needed to stay aligned with your evolving goals and
environment.
Remember that the key to successful WIGs is focus. By narrowing your
attention to a few critical objectives, you increase your chances of achieving
them and making significant progress toward your larger vision.