slutmålet

Slutmålet is a Swedish term that describes the final goal or end objective of a process, plan, or strategy. It refers to the ultimate state that a person, organization, or project aims to reach after completing the necessary steps. The concept is used across fields such as business, public policy, education, and project management to provide a clear endpoint for efforts and evaluation.

The word combines slut (end) and mål (goal). In Swedish, the definite form slutmålet is used when referring to “the final goal,” while the indefinite form is slutmål. The term is often contrasted with delmål, which means sub-goals or milestones—intermediate targets that are steps on the way toward the slutmålet.

Usage and purpose: Slutmålet is employed to articulate the intended outcome that guides decisions, resource allocation, and performance assessment. It helps align stakeholders and provide a basis for evaluating success once a project or policy is completed. Delmål are commonly established to measure progress and adjust strategies as needed to reach the slutmålet.

Examples: In a municipal climate plan, the slutmålet might be to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a specified percentage by a target year. In education, the slutmålet could be to raise the share of students achieving basic competencies to a defined level by a set date. In sports, the term can denote the intended final result of a season or match.

See also: delmål, mål, policy planning, project management.