Translated from Português (Brazil) • View original OKR offers a very simple concept: the company has a goal and it needs to understand if it is on the right track to achieve it. This methodology has become popular among companies because it is a very effective tool to bring the success that so many seek today. Managers use this tool as a type of aid to understand which individuals on their team have the best performance and, based on this information, it will be possible to create an action of continuous recognition for employees. Currently, a growing number of companies are starting to rely on OKR to attract more results to their business and the feedback has been very inviting. It is known to everyone that having clear objectives and keeping all activities running in full harmony are essential for the company to present good results. And, because of this, it is considered that enterprises that do not yet use it may end up suffering the consequences of the market, as their path will be even more complicated. Learn more about OKR and how it can help your company achieve more positive results without big secrets.
What is OKR?
The acronym OKR comes from the English Objectives and Key Results. Its main function is to structure actions in a way that organizational objectives are achieved more quickly and efficiently. This type of approach involves an entire process, from the way purposes and goals are defined to the way everything is measured and monitored.
What are the benefits of the OKR methodology?
Just like any other feature, the OKR methodology has several benefits when used correctly. For example:
More agility in development
Using this type of tool, it will be possible to create shorter cycles of goals, which allow for quick adjustments and better adaptation to changes.
Motivates the team
In the OKR methodology, there is an approach called "top down", which connects employees with the company's main objectives, which increases engagement.
Reduces time to set goals
The simplicity of the method makes the goal-setting process much faster and easier, which drastically reduces the time spent on this development.
Keeps employees focused
With the smaller number of goals, it will be possible to create a more centered focus of all your team members.
More transparency for the process
The use of shared OKRs helps improve collaboration between different teams, unifying initiatives easily.
Offers more autonomy and responsibility
Teams will be given a clearer direction to follow, as well as the option to choose how to achieve goals, becoming more accountable for their services. These advantages can be enjoyed by companies of any type of industry and also of all sizes.
How does the OKR methodology work?
OKR may seem difficult to understand, but it turns out that it is simpler than we imagine. Since the company is based on the definition of objectives, its next step is to break down this purpose into small goals so that the path is traced smoothly. What is achieved from this point becomes the key result. See how each of the steps works in more detail:
Objectives
Objectives are statements that describe what is expected as a final result. Ideally, each of them should be a short and direct sentence that, at the same time, can bring more inspiration to the responsible team. A very important point to mention is that the deadlines of these objectives determine the time for the expected results. Therefore, the shorter the deadline, the better the strategy to be followed at the moment.
Key Results
The key results are the unfolding of measurable, but challenging, objectives and goals. Check out some examples: Goal: double the number of employees in the company
- Key result 1: increase revenue by 30%;
- Key Result 2: Offer a new product to the market.
What are the main mistakes made when using an OKR
OKR can be new to many companies and the enthusiasm of working with a new tool can lead to mistakes that will compromise your development process. Know the main mistakes made and prevent them from happening:
Create many OKRs
OKRs should not be a list of all the tasks that need to be done in the company, but an inventory of all the priority goals of the business.
Lack of alignment
It is very important never to determine OKRs alone. In addition to being quite laborious, you will end up wasting time, in addition to excluding the people who are part of your team. Talk to your team and other employees, so that everyone is always aligned with the methods that will be addressed in the company.
Very easy goals to achieve
Goals really need to be achievable, but making them too easy can be a big mistake. A motivated team is made with challenging and ambitious goals. So, always think outside the box.
Get to know the OKR tool
If you are interested in bringing OKR to your company, count on a tool that will help you in all the necessary steps to achieve your goals. Contact Colorkrew and ask all your questions.