OKR (Objectives and Key Results) is a goal-setting framework used by organizations to define what they want to achieve (Objectives) and how they will measure success (Key Results). Popularized by companies like Google and Intel, OKRs help SaaS and B2B teams align, focus, and measure performance at every level of the organization.
What Are OKRs?
OKRs consist of two parts:
- ✅ Objectives – Ambitious, qualitative goals that set direction
- 📊 Key Results – Measurable outcomes that track progress toward the objective
OKRs are designed to encourage stretch goals, improve transparency, and foster alignment across teams.
OKR Format
Objective: What do you want to achieve?
Key Results: How will you measure success?
Example OKR (Marketing Team):
- Objective: Increase awareness of our product in the B2B SaaS space
- KR1: Get featured in 5 industry publications
- KR2: Increase website traffic by 40%
- KR3: Reach 1,000 MQLs by end of quarter
Why OKRs Matter in SaaS and B2B
- 🎯 Align cross-functional teams on common priorities
- 📈 Encourage ambitious yet measurable growth
- 📊 Improve transparency and accountability
- 🔁 Facilitate regular performance reviews
- 🧠 Bridge strategic vision with tactical execution
OKRs vs KPIs
| Feature | OKRs | KPIs |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Ambitious goals and results | Continuous performance monitoring |
| Structure | Objective + measurable key results | Single metrics tied to performance |
| Frequency | Set quarterly or bi-annually | Tracked weekly/monthly |
| Alignment | Company-wide alignment | Team or role-specific metrics |
Use KPIs to measure current performance, and OKRs to set and drive future goals.
Best Practices for Setting OKRs
- 🚀 Set ambitious yet achievable objectives
- 🔢 Keep 3–5 key results per objective
- 🤝 Align team OKRs with company goals
- ⏱ Review progress regularly (weekly/bi-weekly)
- ✅ Score OKRs at the end of the cycle (0.0 to 1.0 scale)
OKRs in CUFinder Use Cases
CUFinder supports OKR achievement by:
- 🎯 Helping growth and sales teams enrich and qualify leads to meet MQL or SQL targets
- 📊 Enabling marketers to track attribution goals through enriched data
- 🧠 Supporting CS and RevOps in measuring retention, CLTV, and upsell goals
Cited Sources
- Wikipedia: OKR
- Wikipedia: Goal setting
- Wikipedia: Performance indicator
- Wikipedia: Performance management
Related Terms
FAQ
What is the main purpose of OKRs?
OKRs help teams set clear, measurable goals and ensure everyone is aligned toward achieving strategic outcomes.
How often should OKRs be set?
OKRs are typically set on a quarterly or bi-annual basis, depending on company rhythm and team structure.
Who should use OKRs?
OKRs can be used by individuals, teams, departments, and executives to stay aligned and goal-focused.
Can OKRs and KPIs work together?
Yes. OKRs define what you’re trying to achieve, while KPIs measure your current performance. Many key results are based on KPIs.
Are OKRs supposed to be 100% completed?
Not always. OKRs are meant to stretch teams — scoring 70–80% often indicates strong progress while still encouraging growth.