Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) Practice Test

Which of the following is an example of a well-structured department goal?

1. To be a safe and more efficient department next year

2. To meet all regulatory requirements within the coming year

3. To reduce the number of service complaints by 10 percent within one year

4. To reduce the department budget by $100,000

The correct answer is: To reduce the number of service complaints by 10 percent within one year

A well-structured department goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (often referred to as SMART). The goal of reducing the number of service complaints by 10 percent within one year meets all of these criteria. It specifies a clear target (10 percent reduction), allows for measurement of success (through the number of service complaints), is achievable within the provided timeframe (one year), and is relevant to improving departmental performance and customer satisfaction. In contrast, the other options are vague or lack measurable criteria. For instance, aiming to be a safe and more efficient department is broad and does not provide a clear metric for success. Meeting all regulatory requirements is necessary but does not quantify success or provide a time frame for achievement. Reducing the department budget by $100,000, while specific, may not necessarily align with improving overall departmental goals if it compromises service quality. Thus, option C stands out as the best example of a well-structured goal.