The KPI tree

The KPI tree is a helpful practice to collectively move from abstract strategic goals to measurable activities (KPI stands for Key Performance Indicator).

• Invite representatives from different departments to create the tree. Each has its interests, which might clash, but that’s good.

• Use a large sheet of paper to draw a tree. Start with the roots and the trunk. The organization’s mission and vision form the trunk, and the roots are the organization’s values. Then fill the tree further with the following questions. The tree visually represents KPIs divided over strategic goals.

• The Roots: What are the organization’s values?

• The Trunk: What is the organization’s mission?

• The Branches: What are the strategic goals of the program? Which themes or activities determine success?

• The Offshoots: What is crucial to achieving these goals?

• The Leaves: How do you measure the effect of this theme or activity?
  

• Choose the three most important KPIs to monitor. Highlight them for visibility. Start with just three to avoid drowning in data and losing sight of your strategic goals.

• Work with these KPIs and regularly evaluate the insights they provide.