Which of the following is not one of the three trends that assist in determining if an objective is strategic?

In the context of strategic objective setting, the three trends generally considered are internal, external, and performance trends. These trends help organizations assess the broader landscape and ensure that objectives align with long-term goals and capabilities.

Internal trends reflect an organization’s own strengths and weaknesses, such as resources, culture, and operational efficiency. External trends cover market dynamics, competitive positioning, and macroeconomic factors impacting the business environment. Performance trends focus on how well the organization is achieving its current objectives and may also encompass metrics related to service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Financial trends, while crucial for overall organizational health, do not fall within the three primary categories used for determining whether an objective is strategic. Instead, they are often viewed as a separate consideration that may inform strategic decisions but doesn't directly indicate the strategic nature of an objective itself. Therefore, identifying financial trends as not part of the trio solidifies the understanding of strategic objective evaluation.