1. An end to be achieved, a future condition or result to be accomplished in a specific time in carrying out a particular activity.
2. A value sought by an individual or group.
3. The time dimension of an objective is long-range, as distinguished from short-range targets and goals.
4. Objectives are usually specific and realistic in contrast to (organizational) philosophies and creeds. They can however be broad, since one of their characteristics is variability, and can range from general, overall statements to specific, narrow statements.
5. There is considerable confusion between (organizational) purposes, objectives, policies, and goals. The guiding distinction is that a purpose determines why an organization continues to exist, an objective determines what it wants to accomplish, a policy determines how it carries out its activities in order to fulfill its purpose and achieve its objectives.