Objectives Key Results (OKR) and Key Performance Indicators (KPI) are popular frameworks that organizations use to measure and track performance.
However, there is often confusion around how OKR and KPI differ.
This guide will provide an overview of OKR and KPI, highlight the key features of each, and identify differences between the two frameworks.
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It will also provide examples to help illustrate OKR and KPI in action.
Background Overview on OKR and KPI
OKR and KPI are tools to set goals, track progress, and measure results. However, they serve different purposes:
- OKR – A goal-setting framework that defines objectives and key results. Objectives are qualitative goals, while key results are quantitative metrics that measure progress toward the objectives.
- KPI—Strategic performance measures evaluate the success of an organization, team, or individual in meeting key business objectives. KPIs track progress towards predetermined goals.
Features of OKR and KPI
OKR Features:
- Qualitative, aspirational objectives.
- Quantitative, measurable vital results.
- Time-bound (e.g., quarterly).
- Ambitious stretch goals.
- Transparent to the entire organization.
KPI Features:
- Quantitative metrics tied to objectives.
- Measurable and easy to monitor.
- Focus on past performance.
- Tracks progress towards goals.
- Specific targets to reach.
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10 Differences Between OKR and KPI
- Purpose – OKR drives continuous improvement, and KPI measures progress toward goals.
- Scope – OKR is aligned with organizational objectives, and KPIs focus on department/team goals.
- Measurement – OKR measures ongoing progress, and KPI evaluates success based on targets.
- Timeframe – OKR uses short cycles (quarterly), and KPIs are often annual.
- Ambition – OKR goals are aspirational, and KPI targets are based on current ability.
- Adaptability – OKR fluid, updated frequently, KPIs locked for set periods.
- Transparency – OKR is visible to all employees, and KPIs are often confidential.
- Accountability – OKR team-based accountability, KPIs individual accountability.
- Completion – OKR may not reach the goal; KPI expected to reach the target.
- Reward – OKR not directly rewarded, KPI achievement may be rewarded.
Opportunities and Challenges
Using OKR and KPI together provides focus and alignment from company objectives to individual performance.
However, organizations should be careful not to conflate the two frameworks.
Challenges can arise if teams try to retrofit KPIs to match OKRs rather than developing aligned but distinct metrics.
OKR Examples
Objective: Expand market share in the Northeast region
Key Results:
- Increase sales by 20% in New York and Boston
- Acquire five new major customers
- Conduct 100 meetings with prospective clients
KPI Examples
Objective: Increase customer retention
KPI: Reduce customer churn rate to less than 2%
Summary
OKR and KPI are complementary frameworks that, when executed properly, allow organizations to set strategic goals and regularly track performance.
While they have some similarities, there are important differences between OKR’s aspirational objectives and KPI’s performance measurement focus.
Organizations will benefit most when OKR and KPI are aligned but remain distinct.
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With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.