When to use OKRs and when not to

Clarity on what success looks like is crucial for any initiative, and while objectives and key results (OKRs) can effectively align larger, established teams by promoting collaboration over competition, they may not be suitable for all scenarios. In larger organizations, OKRs help unify disparate goals and focus efforts on shared outcomes, but in smaller startups or new ventures, they may introduce confusion and hinder progress. In such cases, product goals, which emphasize a single clear objective without predefined key results, can be more effective, especially in the pre-launch phase where flexibility is key. Measuring success with OKRs involves tracking progress against specific key results, whereas product goals require defining relevant metrics as the project evolves. The choice between OKRs and product goals depends on the stage and needs of the project, with adaptability being crucial to ensuring progress and achieving objectives.