Have you ever considered the possibility of using OKR software? First, let's talk about methodology. Very similar to management by guidelines, it is a strategy that is increasingly used by companies. Through it, it is possible to develop management based on indicators and goals, aiming to achieve a high performance culture.

For the best management of a team's OKRs and also for more precise monitoring throughout the company, it is advisable to use OKR software. With this in mind, we have prepared this content for you to understand a little more about the topic, and to see how a tool can help in this regard. Read on and learn more!

Understand the anatomy of OKR

Before we explain the importance of looking for OKR software, let's understand a little more about the anatomy of this methodology.

Objectives

In an OKR, the objectives need to be qualitative so that they do not bring any conflict with the key-results. In addition, it is recommended that they be aspirational: the more memorable they are, the better.

Key results

To understand the progress of the planned activities, there is a need to define key results: clear metrics and deliverables that will provide an understanding of whether or not the objectives have been achieved. What are good key results? To achieve them, they need to be S.M.A.R.T:

  • Specific 
  • Measurable 
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound 

Why use OKR software?

Now that you know about the anatomy of an OKR, let's get to the benefits of having OKR software.

Possibility of tracking OKR cycles

For the success of the OKR methodology, it is recommended that short cycles be defined for meeting the goals. In general, companies define a period of three or four months for the deployment of goals, both individual and team goals.

For this reason, it is necessary to keep track of what has been done continuously. Through OKR software, you have a clear overview of the tasks to be performed within each defined OKR. In addition, it is possible to leave comments about what needs to be done, so that there is a clearer direction for leaders to achieve the defined key-results.

Continuous monitoring of the evolution of goals

As we know, a goal that is not monitored can even fall by the wayside. For this reason, there is a need for continuous follow-up - even to stimulate the team's engagement.

Ideally, the owner of that OKR should do a weekly review of the development of his or her activities. With OKR software, you can have a view on this progress in graphs, constantly updating the results achieved, and plotting actions that can improve the numbers - if necessary.

More convenience

Especially in remote work contexts, the need has arisen to look for convenience and also for improvements in the communication of the whole team. Through OKR software, the team has a real-time view of how the company is doing, without having to hold meetings for OKR update (although they are recommended periodically for monitoring and alignment).

Further Communication

When we talk about the main mistakes made by companies when implementing the methodology, lack of communication and alignment is among the main ones. For the strategy to succeed, the areas need to exchange information and subsidies. After all, the work of one sector consequently influences the others.

Visualize the strategic OKR map

We know that the first step in determining goals is to define the organization's OKRs. For this reason, it is recommended that you start with global goals, outlining objectives for a period of one year, for example. In this way, from this annual objective, it is possible to draw up specific objectives.

After this step, it is time to move on to the OKRs of the areas. If your company is just starting out in the methodology, the ideal is to set simpler goals to bring about employee engagement.

After one or two cycles of team goals, it is time to set individual goals. In this case, the employees themselves participate in the definition of their goals, which increases motivation and engagement to achieve them.

And how is it possible to observe alignment between individual, area and company OKRs? Through a strategic map, in which you have an overview of all the teams - and the employees can understand how each OKR and project contributes to the business results. 

In this way, any professional in the company can see on the strategic map how his or her function helps the organization to row toward the macro objective of the business. Thus, employees are able to have a glimpse of the importance of their role and feel more engaged and motivated.

Specialized service

In a company that is a reference in the market when it comes to OKR software, you will have the opportunity to count on a team of specialists that will help in the most diverse contexts. In addition, you will have access to exclusive content, materials, and training, which increase the methodology's chances of success.

So, do you want to know a little more about how OKR software will contribute to your company? Please contact our team and ask your questions!