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Unrealistic targets are target that are ambiguous. That's, they can't be easily reached or attained.

Can you kindly state why you think you were on track?

What happens when funding for data gathering is insufficient and one is not able to apply objectivity in target setting?

If you say that someone is being unrealistic, you mean that they do not recognize the truth about a situation, especially about the difficulties involved in something they want to achieve.

For instance, if your goal is to run a marathon, it's wildly unrealistic to sign up for one next month, unless you've already done several months of training. Or, if your goal is to become CEO of a company, but you have no experience, this goal might not be practical – at least not yet! thats unrealistic target

If you say that someone is being unrealistic, you mean that they do not recognize the truth about a situation, especially about the difficulties involved in something they want to achieve.

For instance, if your goal is to run a marathon, it's wildly unrealistic to sign up for one next month, unless you've already done several months of training. Or, if your goal is to become CEO of a company, but you have no experience, this goal might not be practical – at least not yet! thats unrealistic target

Setting targets can be a bit hard. I love how the module outlines the different strategies one can use to set targets. Sometimes too, non profits are forced to set unrealistic targets in order to receive funding for a project. I have had this experience with a project that I was working on where we were indirectly made to set a target which was very unrealistic in order for us to qualify for the funding. In the end, we weren't able to achieve that goal but we made conscious efforts to at least get closer to the set target. However, I do agree that it is important to set realistic targets regardless to ensure reject efficiency and also team fulfillment.

Setting targets can be a bit hard. I love how the module outlines the different strategies one can use to set targets. Sometimes too, non profits are forced to set unrealistic targets in order to receive funding for a project. I have had this experience with a project that I was working on where we were indirectly made to set a target which was very unrealistic in order for us to qualify for the funding. In the end, we weren't able to achieve that goal but we made conscious efforts to at least get closer to the set target. However, I do agree that it is important to set realistic targets regardless to ensure reject efficiency and also team fulfillment.

Unrealistic targets, usually may arise due to high Abitions and expectations although its important to select realistic yet not obvious targets for the project to create an impact!

Unrealistic targets occur due to the use of emotions when being set. People use their own biases instead of relying on the numbers and data available before them before setting any such targets. As a result, the projects seem to fail ot never hitting the intended targets.

Unrealistic Targets content that:-

1. Unrealistic targets are not achievable in the decided project cycle or period.
2. Unrealistic targets affect the quality of outcomes and impact of the projects.
3. Using sources and implementation of the project and funder budgets are also affected by unrealistic targets.

Unrealistic targets like a reel life which is far from the reality of life that depends on time and field reality.

I have come to learn that the key issue for project success is defining realistic targets that takes into account the available resources (staff, time, finance) the organization has. This course gives me the opportunity to understand the consequences of defining unrealistic targets.

Setting realistic targets will enable you to assess whether you would actually do the project otherwise, one might think that you are not being serious

When a target is adjusted does it affect the project?

Unrealistic targets would be those aspects of the end goal being too high to be achieved or fall short of achieving. Further these targets may also involve a lot of risky activities in order to meet the set goals. The resources available may also dictate the targets.. therefore a realistic target should always fall within the budget.

Totally agree with Titose. Those levels we plan to achieve but situations we already are aware of make it not realizable are unrealistic targets. Our assumptions of other things like funding by donors may also lead towards a target. If you as an M&E planner then you assume that donors will allow to fund 1000 benefiaries to a seminar,and go ahead to target 1000 participants will be attending the seminar at the end of the day, then this will be unrealistic target as the donors may only be willing to fund 700 participants.

indeed some targets need to be clear and precise so that they can be effective

What happens when funding for data gathering is insufficient and one is not able to apply objectivity in target setting?

Setting targets really requires returning to the assumptions and risks. If the assumptionsn are met and the risks reduced, we have a better chance of meeting more ambitious targets.
It is often tempting to lower the targets and keep them achievable, however, the danger there is that the project becomes meaningless and resources are wasted.
Setting targets needs to be done collaboratively, based on past trends and good baselines.

Unrealistic targets stall the project or makes it hard to review progress. They seemingly become too ambitious and become a detriment to the organisation.

can a person who is new understand your point? I think you should expound on this

what are some of the unrealistic targets you could think of?

what are some of the unrealistic targets you could think of?

That's right

unrealistic target for instant target is what you have set to achieve so for a target to be If you say that someone is being unrealistic, you mean that they do not recognize the truth about a situation, especially about the difficulties involved in something they want to achieve.
an unrealistic target is a target that has no hope of truth for achievement.

Unrealistic Targets
These are targets that you set to achieve by the end of the project but while in reality they cannot be achieved mainly as a result of;

• limited funds
• un predicted weather changes
• political interferences
• lack of baseline information( data)

Unrealistic targets are the targets that you know you cannot achieve but you just want the donors to fund the project, beneficiaries to feel happy that the project will help them out but in reality, nothing will come out as the targets was setted to achieve

Targets are unrealistic and unattainable if a government has never performed at the target level or there is no evidence it can reach the target. Usually the target has been set out of pure optimism or sheer political will, often because a government is trying to take an aggressive position to inspire higher performance, regardless of the evidence.

Signs your goals are unrealistic:

There is no internal consensus around the validity of the target – some people may not be sure where the target came from
The target is set far beyond a reasonable range based on past performance and baseline data
The target was set by someone other than a subject matter expert

I have really learned a lot when it comes to targets setting. This unit has really been an eye open to me when it comes to target setting. I have to confess that I gave been attending workshops where we develop project logframes but I can admit that we have not been keen on budget, previous projects, expert opinion etc. Instead, we have been worried about the donor expectations. This I can attest has been contributing to us setting unrealistic targets.

And this make make the donor to withdraw the funding as you will end up not meeting the targets by far. A situation which would not have occurred had the M&E person done due diligence and even considered the assumptions during the target setting and how they can affect the results.

I think when it comes to limited funds, we can set our targets based on the funds we have. While for the baseline data absence, we can use other previous projects, experts opinion or start from zero if its a new area of implementation. The rest of the concerns like political interference and unpredicted whether you will considered them as risks and assumptions and have the targets with that in mind.

We need to use data not feelings when setting targets to avoid biases and assumptions.
To set realistic targets we should consider doing a baseline through existing reliable data sources, collecting data or starting at zero.
We can also consider historical trends, expert opinions, previous research findings, stakeholder expectations and the project budgets.

Yes very true and insightful

In my project, the unrealistic target would be to score a 5 stars laboratory. The realistic target is to score a 3 stars considering we are on zero star.
We might need to to reduce on the budget realizing that the source of funds is not certain. This would mean to manage ourselves even with $20,000.

In my project, the unrealistic target would be to score a 5 stars laboratory. The realistic target is to score a 3 stars considering we are on zero star.
We might need to to reduce on the budget realizing that the source of funds is not certain. This would mean to manage ourselves even with $20,000.
The time frame will need to be extended to one year six months to allow adjustment in the project from one year plan.

Over the years, project fail to achieve their targets because they set unrealistic targets. Setting target to get funds or to make your project proposal captivating is one of the numerous ways project failed. Unrealistic targets are pointless. Let's do the necessary finding and set targets according to trend. Thanks

We tend to get ahead of ourselves in a bid to create a lasting change or an impact without taking into account the data and resources available we set unrealistic target

Unrealistic targets can happen for several reasons. One reason is if the project team have not collected enough data to inform themselves of different conditions that could affect program implementation. For example, the project team might have articulated high targets to impress potential donors without deeply assessing if the team has the required capacity to deliver the set targets or scanning the project sites to glean some perspectives relative to setting targets. Another reason for unrealistic targets is when program implementers let their biases influence their decisions. For instance, a humanitarian organization might expect a big number of participants to their program because the organization is widely known. For this reason, they would set an unrealistic number of participants, based on their popularity, even if results from other similar programs convey low intake. All in all, what I'm saying is that in order to avoid unrealistic targets in our projects, it is essential to collect relevant data from varied and numerous resources to inform our decision in setting targets.

it is useful module to learn on to set targets before starting a project activates, which mostly doesn't happen. also having realistic target will be great.

According to my own understanding and view, targets can be unrealistic if a project have never performed at the target level or there is no evidence it can reach the target. usually the target has been set out of pure optimism.
Examples of some signs of unrealistic targets are:

1. The targets is set far beyond a reasonable range on past performance and baseline data.
2. The target was set by someone other than a subject matter expert.

We often set unrealistic targets because we initially want to impress our donor/shareholder. But with the many uncertainties in our societies (especially here in Africa), we later face difficulties in implementing/achieving our targets successfully.
So, as much as we want to be ambitious with our targets, we also need to be realistic about achieving it.

It is really discouraging working on a project with unrealistic targets.

Very true

Thanks. Everything is fine. The course is excellent

Thanks. Everything is fine. The course is excellent

Thanks. Everything is fine. The course is excellent

Unrealistic target is a situation where there is no internal consensus around the validity of the target – some people may not be sure where the target came from. The target is set far beyond a reasonable range based on past performance and baseline data. The target was set by someone other than a subject matter expert

It is important to set realistic targets. I have learned a lot on setting realistic targets including the kind of targets to set whether it's qualitative, quantitative or efficiency. I have always been setting targets for our projects but i have not been consulting expert opinions so that to help me set more realistic targets.

According to what i have learned in this module, unrealistic targets are simply those targets that are difficult to achieve. They do not recognize the truth about a certain situation. in other words there is no evidence a project reached those targets, they are not valid, they are set far beyond reasonable range based on past performance.

According to what i have learned in this module, unrealistic targets are simply those targets that are difficult to achieve. They do not recognize the truth about a certain situation. in other words there is no evidence a project reached those targets, they are not valid, they are set far beyond reasonable range based on past performance.

Target means alot to different individuals,and it all depends on what you are achieving and planning as a project.
Target: is the numbers or **

• bolded text**percentage of that you would like to reach.The success you want to achieve in a particular project.
  The commitments you put in to achieve a particular result.Thw target motivate the team to achieve its success.
  A Target is said to be unrealistic when it doesn't achieve it certain goal or results.When the goals to be achieve is not well spelt out.it tend to be unrealistic in nature.

Unrealistic targets can be too ambitious or unachievable. This can be due to lack of inadequate facts before setting such targets. Unrealistic target can lead a team to failure in actualisation of a project's goal.

Targets are set base on facts, budget, stakeholders, research findings and opinions of experts. When these are not put into consideration, an unrealistic target can be set. This means setting targets base on assumptions and with little or no consideration of the stakeholders concerns. It also extends to lack of on ground information from existing bodies or experts in a particular project.

Targets are necessary in monitoring and evaluation of a project. It helps to know if the goal of the stakeholders are achieved while providing a premises and guide of what is attainable for the project. So, it is always necessary to avoid setting too big or too small targets as this might lead to failure or low value of project.

The most imortant is the moment when the target is the baseline.

Hello everyone, my name is Ekeocha Bright

I feel that unrealistic target comes in, most of the time, when funds becomes insufficient. For instance a certain amount may be ok for a project, but due to inflation, the amount may become insufficient. This may affect the entire process of the project.

Also target may be set too high because the donors have to be impressed and become happy to fund project.

Again, variations in Idea. When workers fails to work with the idea of the one that carries the vision of the project.

SMART targets should be set (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time bound).

Unrealistic goals, such as eradicating poverty in a few months, are difficult to measure and achieve.
Such unrealistic targets will be unable to demonstrate the true impact of the intervention and measure the program's success.
The strong targets should also represent the target population's disaggregation in numbers so that we can easily measure it.

Some targets may seem unrealistic maybe due to not believing you can achieve them.

Unrealistic targets are goals that are too ambitious and too unrealistic to be achieved. It becomes nearly impossible or impossible to achieve within speculated times in the project forecast.

it is useful module to learn on to set targets before starting a project activates, which mostly doesn't happen. also having realistic target will be great.

A good review and good use of terminology can be a good way in setting up targets that are realistic.

The choice of lenses is very important. In my opinion, in order to be good, the objectives must be SMART

Unrealistic targets are unachievable targets. They are just like fantasies on paper that a project will in practice.

If a target is not realistic then it shouldn't be considered a target because target is like a goal that is meant to be achieved at a stipulated time. Unrealistic targets might come up when one is too optimistic thereby setting a high target which might not be realistic. Using data instead of feelings should be considered inorder to get a realistic target.

Setting goals which push staff to achieve their best can lead to very positive results.

On the other hand, setting unrealistic goals can have a negative impact on employees and the business. Here are some of the effects that may occur in the short-term:

Unrealistic target will be difficult to achieve, makes your project doomed to be unsuccessful

There are times when we get carried away and set overly ambitious targets that we genuinely feel are realistic. Other team members can point this out to us via constructive feedback.

Unrealistic targets can hinder the accomplishment of the project success in the given amount of time. Targets need to be achievable and obtainable and often if unrealistic, it means the project has no plan and no direction, thus like goals and objectives, the target need to be realistic and time bound for it to succeed.

I share the same sentiments.

unrealistic target are hard to measure the progress and its achievement this will automatically translate that the goals will not be met. Unrealistic target will not factor in the resources available and the targets are not flexible for changes such as change in finances and duration of the project.

One of the things I have learnt is to set targets based on available data and not emotions. Out of exciting it is possible to come up with very unrealistic targets without even paying close attention to availability of funds. Again, the inability to meet unrealistic targets has a tripartite effect on the donor, team and the beneficiaries who may have become expectant.

Organizations must be careful not to set unrealistic targets they are not able to reach or achieve as this will affect or determine whether or not they will be considered by future donors. Sometimes, targets are not cast on stones, there are some circumstances that can warrant organizations to revisit their targets and change them. circumstances like reduced or increased funding, insecurity or the eruption of an unforeseen circumstance.

Some unrealistic target include setting out to carry out work for which funding is not available and time is short.

An unrealistic goals is any ambition that isn't attainable practical, or doable. When you set unrealistic goals, you get bored or burnt out and you quit early. To recognize unrealistic goal, check that each step of your plan achievable. To stop setting unrealistic goals make you goals simpler.

There are at least three main outcomes from setting your goals too high:

1. Burnout: If you're pushing yourself hard than you're capable of or harder than your life circumstances allow, it's only a matter or time before you crash.
2. Boredom: A large part of accomplishing any goal is consistent action over time.
3. Quitting: Unrealistic goals are also unachievable goals.

I think that it is imperative to set realistic targets in order to avoid the disappointment that comes when you actually perform well below those targets

What if the target was gotten from needs assessment, and this is way higher than the target allocated for the project

In my experience, setting targets sometimes become most of a "what to say to please the donors?" task than a methodical exercise of researching and identifying baselines. I don't if others have experienced this kind of predicaments before, and if so, what have you done to overcome that discussion and set the targets properly.

I have come to learn that the key issue for project success is defining realistic targets that takes into account the available resources (staff, time, finance) the organization has. This course gives me the opportunity to understand the consequences of defining unrealistic targets.

Unrealistic target are not motivational target. Targets should be achievable even within a set period of time.

Unrealistic target are not motivational target. Targets should be achievable even within a set period of time.

Unrealistic targets should be avoided. Targets that can be achieved within a timeframe should be set

Unrealistic targets should be avoided. Targets that can be achieved within a timeframe should be set

Setting unrealistic targets is a big problem in many projects and it almost always leads to failure in achieving the objectives of goal of the project unless such targets are reviewed. Good and reliable baseline data and effective stakeholder engagement is crucial in guiding the project team set realistic targets.

Setting unrealistic targets is a big problem in many projects and it almost always leads to failure in achieving the objectives of goal of the project unless such targets are reviewed. Good and reliable baseline data and effective stakeholder engagement is crucial in guiding the project team set realistic targets.

As M&E experts, the best to do is to set realistic targets and adjust your target when it quite necessary

Quite true

Unrealistic targets are targets which cannot be achieve in a practical sense or simple overthinking that concert with limited resources that constrains from fully achieving the target you set. Eg. You may set a target as, Number of 20 students to be assist for tertiary institution", but the funding is enough to sponsor only 12 students.

i think that i have come to know and learn a lot of things on targets settings. to know that indicators and targets have characteristics to follow before putting them to use has been very enriching to as a HCM. i think i am getting more equipped with is course more than i had thought it would be . M&E is indeed an essential part of project execution. the role she plays in management and project management is undeniable the heart of project management.

i totally agree with Jennefer, on this write up. i also think that one of the unrealistic targets can come as a result of insufficiency in budgeting . for instance, your target maybe to distribute 2000 aquo tablets for the purification of drinking water in a particular community but the budget disbursed to your team can purchase just 1000 tablet. this therefore means that, target has to adjusted .

that opinion is very NAKU37, but also another one i have across is setting up huge targets to impress the donors because you want them to sponsor your projects but at the end of the project , the team is unable to realizes this targets. so i would rather advise for those writing most of these projects to collect their bassline data to use as a tool to estimate their targets.

Unrealistic targets can bring failure to the project just as the name suggests, it will be unrealistic, and unachievable .it is good to put your targets at a medium level, even though a donor or a partner might have much money to put into the project, medium level targets will show that you are not extravagant, you are experienced in resource management and you take into consideration the financial burden that the donor might have , to mean you can be empathetic. These are qualities/virtues that are needed in a humanitarian arena which are the most dominant settings in project planning.

I agree with your thoughts

This course is helpful, I am learning a lot too

Unrealistic target could possibly lead to drastic consequences. Targets need to be attainable and measurable. Otherwise, there is no need of setting unachievable ones.

well thought out topic

Unrealistic Targets can be dangerous it may lead the organization to false hope. Targets should be realistic and measurable.

Targets are unrealistic where from historical findings, data available and from previous data it can not be attainable.
An example of unrealistic target is preempting that after 1 year of giving microloans in MEH Project all the participants will have successful business.

Unrealistic Targets can be dangerous it may lead the organization to false hope. Targets should be realistic and measurable.

Unrealistic Targets can be dangerous it may lead the organization to false hope. Targets should be realistic and measurable.

Unrealistic targets are sometimes ambitious targets or targets which are impossible to reach because of lack of money (low budget,), materials or according of the situation, there are some beliefs or culture make them impossible to be attempted.

the situation where you set targets that do not answer you set goals in the project

An unrealistic target is any ambition that is not attainable or practical. To recognise unrealistic targets, you need to check that each step of your plan is achievable. Unrealistic targets often have outcomes such are burnout, boredom and quitting. It is therefore important to assess each target to enable you to know whether it is unrealistic or not.