Although a fair amount of research based on case studies of management by objectives success is available reports from scientifically rigorous studies have shown mixed results. management by objectives has much to offer both as a general management practice and as an application of goal-setting theory. But it is by no means easy to start an management by objectives program and keep it going. Some reported difficulties with the process include too much paperwork required to document goals and accomplishments too much emphasis on goal-oriented rewards and punishments as well as too much focus on top-down goals, goals that are easily stated and achieved and individual instead of group goals.