Objectives and Key Results (OKR) is a goal-setting framework that has gained popularity in recent years as a way for organizations to set clear, measurable goals and track progress towards achieving them. OKR software can help companies implement the OKR framework and manage their goals more effectively. However, with so many OKR software options available, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit for your organization.
Here are a few key considerations to help you choose the best OKR software:
- Alignment with your organization’s needs
The first step in choosing OKR software is to assess your organization’s needs and goals. Some software may be more suitable for large enterprises, while others may be better suited for small businesses or startups. Determine what features and functionality are most important to you and look for software that aligns with those needs.
- Ease of use
OKR software should be user-friendly and easy to use, as it will be used by employees at all levels of the organization. Look for software that has a clean, intuitive interface and provides clear instructions for setting and tracking goals.
- Integration with other tools
OKR software should integrate seamlessly with other tools and systems that your organization uses, such as project management software or HR systems. This will help ensure that all of your organization’s data is in one place and easily accessible.
- Scalability
If your organization is expecting to grow, it’s important to choose OKR software that can scale with you. Look for software that can accommodate an increasing number of users and goals as your organization grows.
- Support and training
It’s important to choose OKR software that comes with robust support and training resources, so that you can get the most out of the tool. Look for software that offers online documentation, video tutorials, and live support to ensure that you have the resources you need to succeed.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the best OKR software for your organization’s needs. Implementing OKR software can help your organization set and track clear, measurable goals, which can ultimately lead to improved performance and success.
To help you make up your mind, we asked a few experts on Quora what features they take into consideration when choosing the right OKR software. Here are their answers:
Andriy Bas, OKR expert
“Here’s what I consider in OKR software selection:
1. Size of the team
Some software is designed for enterprises and baked with many features that fit best for large teams, while other tools offer fewer features and simplicity. Do you really need all the features that the tool charges for? Review the case studies to see the type of companies that benefit the most from the tool.
2. Simplicity & time to onboarding
Consider that most of the tools require learning and some time for adoption by the team. Sometimes you even need to conduct a learning session of the tool. Do you have a month to learn your team, or do you need to start using the software on the go?
Tip: Consider users’ feedback on reviews platforms to learn how fast other teams get started with the tool.
3. Pricing plans
Most of the OKR tools suggest annual plans. Does it ok for you to pay annually, or do you need a monthly plan? Will you benefit from paying per user or flat?
Tip: Check the pricing and whether the tool offers monthly plans or trials.
4. Support & help center
If software error or delay with some question can cost you something, it might be not ok for you to wait a few business days to wait for a response by email. So, it’s better to check the timezone and average response time by support teams.
Tip: Check the contact page, live chat, and the average response time of support.
5. Customization & flexibility
Does the tool has a mobile app and integrations with the tools you usually use? Look for software that fits your processes smoothly to make your team adopt it. Slack/Microsoft Teams & Calendar integrations will help you onboard the team and monitor their progress faster.
Tip: check if the tool has a mobile app and integrations.
6. Reporting capabilities
Reports are crucial to get a helicopter view of your team and help managers track the progress of the goals. Even better to find a tool with live dashboards to keep your team on track and motivated towards goals. If dashboards are beautiful and easy to understand, you might also find yourself using them more. Tip: check which types of dashboards tools offer.
7. Connection with other features besides OKRs
To avoid tool overload, it’s make sense to select OKR tool that also has other performance management capabilities your company needs. For example, if you also need evaluate performance, conduct 1:1 meetings, or send employee surveys, better to find a solution that combines it all. Some OKR tools provide various performance management features along with OKRs.
Isabel Nyo, Senior Engineering Leader, Technologist, Author, Speaker
“This may be an unpopular opinion but I don’t think you need to get a specialised software for OKR. I created an OKR system in both Google Sheets* and Notion and have received positive feedback from my customers.
However, if you’re keen to get a specialised software, here are the features I’d look to get:
- Overview of Objectives and key results, including sub key results
- Automatic calculation of % archived for each key result
- Ability to create action items / tasks for each key result
- Ability to add commentary about Objectives and Key results
Bertha Kgokong, BSc in Engineering, University of Cape Town
“When it comes to OKR software, there are a few key features that you should look for to ensure that the tool is a good fit for your company.
First, the software should be easy to use and intuitive. If it’s not, it will be a struggle to get employees on board with using it.
Second, the software should allow you to track progress against your goals. This is essential for measuring whether or not you’re on track to achieving your objectives.
Third, the software should allow you to easily share your goals with employees and track their progress. This is important for keeping everyone on the same page and ensuring that everyone is working towards the same objectives.
Finally, the software should be affordable. There’s no point in investing in a tool that’s going to break the bank.”
