CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
RUBRIC: Basic Criteria for Evaluating a Measurable1 Strategic Goal
CRITERIA
1 - Missed Altogether
2 - Vague
3 - Implied
4 - Clearly Stated
Identifies a specific
outcome or end result
Missed; does not state a
specific outcome; identifies
a “process” or “priority,”
not an end result
Ambiguous; cannot
discern readily the
intended outcome
Somewhat ambiguous;
specific outcome is
implied; the desire end
result is not stated clearly
No ambiguity; the
statement clearly sets forth
the intended outcome
Uses terms and
language that facilitate
“measurement”
(feedback, evidence)
Missed; language does not
identify if or when the
intended outcome is
achieved
Ambiguous; language is
abstract and lacks
specificity; unsure when or
how intended outcome is
achieved
Somewhat ambiguous; the
language only implies
outcome; achievement left
to implication or
interpretation
No ambiguity; language is
exact and leaves no
doubts; clearly identifies
when the intended
outcome is achieved
Worth the resources it
consumes to pursue
and accomplish
Missed; not worth the
resources to pursue and
accomplish
Ambiguous; cannot
discern readily if the goal
is worthy; it’s questionable
Somewhat ambiguous; the
worth is implied, but not
clearly discernable
No ambiguity; the outcome
is clearly worth pursuing;
unquestioned value
Sets forth a realistic
and reachable
expectation2
Missed; expected outcome
appears unrealistic and/or
not achievable
Ambiguous; cannot tell
exactly if it is reachable;
thus, it is hard to tell if it is
realistic
Somewhat ambiguous; the
expected outcome is
perhaps achievable, but
perhaps not
No ambiguity; the outcome
is both clearly realistic and
achievable
1
The term “measurable” is used to denote goals that lend themselves to assessment. That is, the words, phrases, and syntax used clearly
identify a specific result or product and facilitate or suggest ways it is possible to discern (assess) when/if the intended outcome/goal is
achieved (or is in process of being achieved).
2
What is realistic and reachable varies based on available resources, time, and personnel; it is a judgment call. A goal can be worthy, but not
realistic or reachable.
NOTE: Please read Section 2.4, Guidelines: Writing Strategic Goals, in the Strategic Planning and the Comprehensive University Plan (CUP):
User’s Manual and Guidelines, prior to using this rubric. To obtain a copy, please go to the CBU Office of Institutional Research,
Planning, and Assessment (OIRPA) website or contact them directly at extension 4925.
OIRPA – May 2012