Strategic Planning

Common OKR mistakes when writing them

Discover and avoid common OKR mistakes to enhance your goal-setting effectiveness.

Sam Prince

Dec 12, 2019 • 5 min read

Intermediate

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Objectives And Key Results

Organizational Alignment

Performance Measurement

Problem Analysis

Strategic Decision Making

Summary

This resource explores six common mistakes made when writing Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) and offers strategies to avoid them. By understanding these pitfalls, such as confusing aspirational with committed OKRs or setting low-value objectives, professionals can better align their goals with measurable outcomes. The content draws on insights from Google's OKR playbook and John Doerr's 'Measure What Matters,' providing actionable advice for teams and individuals aiming to improve their goal-setting practices. Engage with these insights to refine your OKR process and ensure you are measuring what truly matters.

Takeaways

Challenge your team with OKRs that drive growth rather than maintaining the status quo.
Clearly differentiate between committed and aspirational OKRs to maintain focus and resource allocation.
Ensure OKRs require substantial effort and resource allocation to drive meaningful progress.
Formulate aspirational OKRs with a long-term vision, free from current constraints.
Prioritize OKRs that promise clear business value and tangible benefits.
Write comprehensive Key Results that collectively guarantee the achievement of the Objective.
OKRs help companies strategize towards achieving their goals in a timebound and measurable fashion.
Objective Key Results (OKRs) are a great way to attain the most audacious goals in your company.
The success of OKRs depends on how well you craft them.