Publications
Publications

A Primer on OKRs

By: Suraj Srinivasan and Li-Kuan (Jason) Ni
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:15
ShareBar

Abstract

The OKR framework is a popular goal-setting and strategy execution tool that uses goal setting through “Objectives” and measuring performance using “Key Results” on a periodic basis to measure and drive performance. The OKR framework has been adopted and practiced at companies such as Intel, Google, LinkedIn, Twitter, Netflix among hundreds of others ranging from start-ups to large businesses. Users have found it to be a powerful performance management and goal setting tool as it focuses on near-term measurable goals without losing the aspirational aspect of an organization’s unique mission or purpose. This primer aims to explain fundamental OKR concepts, summarize implementation best practices, discuss OKR mistakes to avoid, and compare OKR with other common management goal setting tools.

Keywords

Business Organization; Talent and Talent Management; Framework; Corporate Governance; Goals and Objectives; Growth and Development; Growth and Development Strategy; Growth Management; Management Analysis, Tools, and Techniques; Management Practices and Processes; Management Skills; Management Systems; Measurement and Metrics; Outcome or Result; Performance Effectiveness; Performance Evaluation; Performance Expectations; Performance Productivity; Performance Efficiency

Citation

Srinivasan, Suraj, and Li-Kuan (Jason) Ni. "A Primer on OKRs." Harvard Business School Background Note 123-081, March 2023.

About The Author

Suraj Srinivasan

Accounting and Management
More Publications

More from the Authors