Zieltyps

Zieltyps (singular Zieltyp, plural Zieltyps) is a German term that can be understood as "target type." It is used to categorize targets or objectives within planning, analysis, or design frameworks. The word combines Ziel (goal, target) with Typ (type). In practice, Zieltyps function as a taxonomy that helps organize different objectives according to shared characteristics such as scope, measurability, time horizon, or stakeholder group. Note that the standard German plural is Zieltypen; Zieltyps may appear in some texts as a nonstandard variant.

In project management, Zieltyps help distinguish strategic objectives from tactical or operational ones, or separate quantitative targets (revenue, units sold) from qualitative aims (satisfaction, quality). In data modeling or software design, Zieltyps may describe categories of targets for which behavior or content is tailored. In marketing and product planning, Zieltyps align with customer segments or personas (for example, price-sensitive targets or early adopters) to guide decision making and evaluation.

Defining Zieltyps typically involves criteria such as relevance, achievability, time frame, and measurability. The categories should be clearly defined, mutually exclusive where possible, and regularly reviewed as plans and environments change. The concept is used flexibly across organizations, and its exact interpretation can vary by domain.

See also: Zielsetzung, Zielgruppe, Zielplanung, Taxonomy.