What term refers to the process of establishing the desired results that direct and guide behavior?

The term that refers to the process of establishing the desired results that direct and guide behavior is goal setting. Goal setting is a fundamental element in the management of organizations because it involves identifying specific, measurable outcomes that individuals or teams aim to achieve. These goals serve as a roadmap, providing clarity on what needs to be accomplished and helping to align efforts toward specific objectives.

In a management context, effective goal setting can enhance motivation and performance, as clear goals encourage individuals to focus their efforts and resources on achieving specific outcomes. Moreover, when goals are communicated clearly within an organization, they can foster a sense of accountability and collaboration among team members.

While other options like objective setting or vision planning are related concepts, they don't encapsulate the specific function of establishing results that guide behavior as directly as goal setting does. Performance enhancement refers more to improving how tasks are carried out rather than defining the actual results or targets themselves. Thus, goal setting stands out as the most precise and relevant term for this process.