Outcome-versus-activity KR guide

The question it helps answer

Use the outcome-versus-activity KR guide to organise the reasoning behind this question: Does a key result measure a changed state rather than completion of work? The working view makes state-versus-task test, metric KR, and milestone KR visible so discussion can move from general opinion to a specific action or decision.

When to use it

Use the outcome-versus-activity KR guide when people working on metrics, goals, and business reviews are using different mental models for state-versus-task test, metric KR, and milestone KR, and that difference is changing choices or coordination.

What it is

The outcome-versus-activity KR guide is a set of connected concepts for examining one situation from several necessary angles. Its core working elements are state-versus-task test, metric KR, milestone KR, and rewrite patterns. Those elements belong together because each changes how the others should be interpreted or acted on.

Core elements

State-versus-task test

Define the standard before judging the work, and make each criterion specific enough for two reviewers to apply consistently. Within the outcome-versus-activity KR guide, connect this entry to metric KR so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

Metric KR

Define the measure, population, period, source, owner, calculation, baseline, target or reference range, and counterweight. Within the outcome-versus-activity KR guide, connect this entry to milestone KR so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

Milestone KR

Use a specific date or event, explain why it matters, and show dependencies that could change the timing. Within the outcome-versus-activity KR guide, connect this entry to rewrite patterns so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

Rewrite patterns

Capture rewrite patterns only at the level needed to answer: Does a key result measure a changed state rather than completion of work? Use observable evidence, name any unresolved judgment, and state what action or choice this entry can change. Within the outcome-versus-activity KR guide, connect this entry to exceptions so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.

Exceptions

Capture exceptions only at the level needed to answer: Does a key result measure a changed state rather than completion of work? Use observable evidence, name any unresolved judgment, and state what action or choice this entry can change. Within the outcome-versus-activity KR guide, connect this entry to rewrite patterns so the relationship can be reviewed rather than inferred.