The words effective and efficient both mean "capable of producing a result," but there is an important difference. Effective means "producing a result that is wanted". Efficient means "capable of producing desired results without wasting materials, time, or energy".

What is the difference between effective and efficient?

Efficiency is defined as the ability to accomplish something with the least amount of wasted time, money, and effort or competency in performance. Effectiveness is defined as the degree to which something is successful in producing a desired result; success.

Which comes first effectiveness or efficiency?

In other words, doing work that aligns with the goals of the company and doing it efficiently. Effectiveness trumps efficiency. Identifying what needs to be done comes first (effectiveness) and then we need to find a way to do it efficiently.