OKRs for Researchers

In this video you'll find out what OKRs are and how they can be sucessfully integrated in the lab to help you maximise productivity and achieve your research objectives.

Begin the OKR-setting process by understanding and aligning with the lab's mission and vision. Consider the broader goals, values, and purpose of the lab or research group. This ensures that your OKRs contribute to the lab's overall objectives and align with its long-term vision.

Foster a collaborative approach by involving team members in the OKR-setting process. Seek their input, insights, and perspectives on the lab's priorities and challenges. Engaging team members encourages ownership, commitment, and shared understanding of the objectives. Collaborative goal-setting enhances team cohesion, cooperation, and motivation.

Balance Outcome-based and Development-based Objectives: Outcome-based objectives focus on specific research outcomes or deliverables, such as publications, patents, or prototypes. Development-based objectives emphasize skill development, knowledge sharing, collaboration, or process improvement. Balancing these two types of objectives ensures a comprehensive approach that promotes both impactful research outcomes and personal/professional growth.

• Specific: Make your objectives and key results specific and well-defined. Clearly state what you aim to achieve and how success will be measured.
• Measurable: Ensure that your key results can be quantified or measured objectively. This allows you to track progress and determine whether the desired outcomes have been achieved.
• Achievable: Set objectives that are challenging yet attainable. Consider the available resources, constraints, and timelines to ensure that your objectives are realistically achievable.
• Relevant: Align your OKRs with your research area, the lab's mission, and the current needs of the scientific community. Make sure your objectives are relevant and have a direct impact on your field of study.
• Time-bound: Set specific timeframes or deadlines for achieving your objectives and key results. This creates a sense of urgency, accountability, and helps with planning and prioritization.

It is best practise to regularly review and revise your OKRs to ensure they remain relevant, achievable, and aligned with changing circumstances. Regularly assess progress, challenges, and new insights to make necessary adjustments with your team members. This approach allows for continuous improvement, adaptation, and realignment of OKRs with the evolving needs of your research.