bjectives and Key Results (OKRs) are a team-based goal-setting methodology that can help you set challenging, yet measurable goals. Objectives (O) help you articulate what you want to achieve. Key Results (KRs) explain how you will achieve them. 

Health care examples of OKRs  

OKRs help health care professionals meet the ambitious goals inherent to providing exceptional patient care. Objectives present a significant care challenge, while Key Results provide a step-by-step action that will move us one step closer to achieving it.  

Objective: Improve inpatient patient experience. 

• KR1: Improve “response to call” domain on HCAHPS surveys from X to X. 
• KR2: Use patient feedback to recognize your team at least 4 times. 
• KR3: Implement Nurse Leader Rounding practice in clinic by end of Q4. 

Objective: Expand ambulatory capacity and access opportunities. 

• KR1: Increase number of available exam rooms from X to X. (space) 
• KR2: Improve EPE access metrics from X to X. (access) 
• KR3: Implement staffing model to manage patient demand by X. (team voice) 

Objective: Address nursing workforce well-being. 

• KR1: Improve RN retention rates from X to X. 
• KR2: Implement revised attendance policy to expand sick call days from X to X. 
• KR3: Improve burnout/work-related stress through WellCheck survey results over 4 consecutive quarters. 

The benefits of using OKRs: 

• Helps teams set goals that are aligned with the organization.  
• Ensures everyone and every team is following a clear direction. 
• Increases productivity through goal setting. 
• Monitors progress towards goals regularly. 
• Enhances decision making based on more accurate information. 
• Ensures accountability, transparency, and measurement.  

Give it a try now

There are many ways to visualize and share your OKRs. Smartsheet offers a series of free downloadable OKR templates available here.