“Measure What Matters”, John Doerr’s Approach to OKRs

John Doerr is rightfully considered one of the most influential preachers of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) methodology. He is the one who initially introduced the idea to the young founders of Google. And their success story has turned OKRs into a well-known goal setting methodology for both start ups and traditional businesses. His ideas along with practical examples are now published in his book: “Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs”.

Read more about OKRs.

OKR case studies in action

This book offers what most resources on the Internet do not. It has detailed, practical examples on how OKRs are implemented in successful companies and NGOs. Thanks to that, the book provides rare insight as to how the methodology was first developed and came into use. It even details all the ideas and thoughts that went into the initial inception of the methodology.

If you need even more examples, take a look at other great OKR case studies.

Measure what matters

The core of OKR methodology is measuring what matters. In the book John Doerr explains that Objectives represent WHAT you want to achieve and Key Results benchmark and monitor HOW you get there. It is as simple as that. The countless examples from successful entrepreneurs all carry the same message: OKR helps you focus, it keeps your team on the right track, and it let’s you see the progress you’ve made.

Continuous performance management

“Measure what matters” also goes over one of the most forgotten aspects about goal setting: it is not enough to set great goals. You must always keep them in sight. And you must work towards them every day of the week. That is why OKRs are so much more effective than yearly reviews. The methodology forces you and your employees to stay focused on the tasks that are most vital for your team.

If you want to try out OKRs with your team, sign up to Weekdone today. We’ve been implementing John Doerr’s ideas for years, and Weekdone will help you implement Objectives and Key Results quickly and with minimal effort.