When creating Key Results as part of the OKR framework, you can choose from several different units to track progress.
Binary
This is a simple done/not done metric. This is relatively brute force since it does not allow you to track on-going progress against a key result but may be helpful for some metrics. When using the binary unit you will be asked to manually update the RAG (red, amber, green) status of the key result when providing an update. Example: Gain ISO accreditation
Number
This can represent any number. Example: Close 18 new customers this quarter (baseline: 0, target: 18)
Percentage (%)
The percentage unit can be used to track progress from 0-100% or you can use it in a customised way where the metric should be represented by a percentage. Example: Reduce employee turnover by to 10% (baseline: 15%, target: 10%)
Currency
By default, Perform & Engage 365 allows two currency units, for example you may have a local currency available to select. This can represent any currency amount. Example: Hit sales of $200,000 this quarter (baseline: $0, target: $200,000)
Baseline and Target
For all units except Binary, you must specify a baseline and a target value. The target is the end aim or where you want to get to. The baseline is the starting point of the goal. This is often zero, but not always – here are a few examples:
- Reduce costs from $200k to $100k this quarter (baseline: $200k, target: $100k)
- Increase annual recurring revenue by $1m this quarter (baseline: $2m, target: $3m)
You will also notice that the baseline can be greater than the target if the aim is to reduce something. The baseline and target should never be the same value.