Episode 12

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Published on:

29th Aug 2023

Playbook Chapter Two - What are Objectives and Key Results OKRs

We're excited to share Chapter Two of our work-in-progress Evolutionary OKRs Playbook with you. This chapter re-introduces Objectives and Key Results for people who may be less familiar with traditional approaches, and then shifts into the unique elements of the Evolutionary OKR model (which we've developed specifically to aid innovative and transformative organizations and teams in setting and achieving bigger, bolder goals). 

I also share a bit more about what we mean when we talk about the Evolutionary Organization. 

I share the actual definition that I use for the terms "Objective" and "Key Result," and I cut to the chase and provide the most essential question each of those terms answers in our businesses, and the building-block-formulas I use to help make sure we're creating useful, usable Objectives AND Key Results every time.

If you'd like to receive each chapter before it goes live on the podcast, join our email list: http://redcurrantco.com/newsletter

 

Key Points from this Episode:

  • Objectives and Key Results are introduced as a method for collaborative goal setting and alignment. 

  • OKRs bridge the gap between high-level strategy and tactical implementation, ensuring alignment with important outcomes. 

  • OKRs were popularized by John Doerr's book "Measure What Matters" and were influenced by Peter Drucker's "Management by Objectives." 

  • Over 127 different OKR management software platforms have caused some confusion in OKR methodology. 

  • Sara introduces the Evolutionary OKR model, which is her approach to OKRs, especially suited for high-change, innovation-oriented organizations. 

  • Evolutionary OKRs are about achieving growth, transformation, and innovation by aligning with important measures of success. 

  • Evolutionary organizations align on their theory of success and progress before planning activities, fostering continuous learning. 

  • Objectives are directional, purpose statements describing what to pursue and why; they provide focus on essential improvement directions. 

  • Key Results are objectively measurable targets describing essential measures of progress and success towards an objective. 

  • Key Results should not describe activities but outcomes; they need to be creatively measurable and focused. 

  • Evolutionary OKRs encourage outcome-based goals as key results, recognizing the importance of influence and aspiration. 

  • Key Results are experiments in quantifying improvement, focusing on the most important measures of progress and success. 

Mentioned in this episode:

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Are you ready to not just set goals, but actually change behavior to achieve them without overwhelm, shame, blame, or overthinking. Join me for the Strategic Clarity Workshop. A No-BS hands-on experience, where you'll turn your vision into a reality proof plan for real measurable results in a calm, supportive space. We're opening up the June dates very soon, and the early bird sale will be limited, so learn more and join the wait list at findrc.co/scwtd or look for the link for the Strategic Clarity Workshop on findrc.co or saralobkovich.com.

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About the Podcast

Thinkydoers®
Leadership and career when you're at odds with mainstream business culture
Thinkydoers®, hosted by Strategy Rebel and OKR Coach Sara Lobkovich, is a community for unconventional leaders, status-quo challengers, and workplace “square pegs.” Thinkydoers are individuals who navigate the journey from insight to idea, through the messy middle, seeking courage and confidence to bring their visions to life.

Thinkydoers are a diverse group. We're disproportionately (but not exclusively) introverted and/or neurodivergent, and regardless of personality or cognitive wiring, Thinkydoers are strategic thinkers often underserved and misunderstood in traditional business cultures. Whether you’re a leader, an aspiring leader, or a behind-the-scenes “clutch player,” Thinkydoers aims to help you find more satisfaction, less frustration, and greater flow in your work.

Learn to unlock your inner strategist with No-BS OKRs. Then, explore topics way beyond goal-setting, including strategy, behavior change, cognitive health, and motivation. Our guest episodes feature a wide range of perspectives to support you in building the work/life you want most.

Increase your impact, reduce overwhelm, avoid burnout, and make the unique impacts only you can bring to the world. Here, you’ll discover how to build and maintain a fulfilling career and lead transformative efforts with significant outcomes, all while putting human outcomes first.

About your host

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Sara Lobkovich