An Objective is defined as which of the following?

• A. A broad directional statement of emphasis or intent to do or accomplish something in the future.
• B. A statement giving the organization's reason for being.
• C. A desirable specific output or result, which is measurable, observable, or identifiable, with a timetable and a person who is accountable or responsible for its accomplishment.
• D. A plan that outlines daily tasks.

Answer: (C)

An objective is a specific, desirable end result that an organization plans to achieve within a set timeframe and with someone accountable for its completion. This is exactly what the option describes: a measurable, observable output with a timetable and a designated person responsible. It’s not merely a broad directional statement about future intent—that would be more like a vision or strategic direction. It’s not the organization’s reason for being, which is its mission. And it isn’t a plan of daily tasks, which would be an operational plan or schedule. In code enforcement practice, clear objectives help assign responsibility, enable measurement of progress, and ensure accountability, such as aiming to complete a certain number of inspections by a specific date with a named inspector in charge.