15 customisable OKR examples for Research Team

What are Research Team OKRs?

The OKR acronym stands for Objectives and Key Results. It's a goal-setting framework that was introduced at Intel by Andy Grove in the 70s, and it became popular after John Doerr introduced it to Google in the 90s. OKRs helps teams has a shared language to set ambitious goals and track progress towards them.

Formulating strong OKRs can be a complex endeavor, particularly for first-timers. Prioritizing outcomes over projects is crucial when developing your plans.

We've tailored a list of OKRs examples for Research Team to help you. You can look at any of the templates below to get some inspiration for your own goals.

If you want to learn more about the framework, you can read our OKR guide online.

Building your own Research Team OKRs with AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here. You can use our free AI generator below or our more complete goal-setting system to generate your own OKRs.

Feel free to explore our tools:

Our customisable Research Team OKRs examples

You'll find below a list of Objectives and Key Results templates for Research Team. We also included strategic projects for each template to make it easier to understand the difference between key results and projects.

Hope you'll find this helpful!

1OKRs to enhance capability as an institutional research analyst in higher education

  • ObjectiveEnhance capability as an institutional research analyst in higher education
  • Key ResultAttend 3 professional development webinars on higher education research analysis techniques
  • TaskParticipate and take notes during each webinar
  • TaskSign up for the chosen webinars
  • TaskIdentify 3 webinars focused on higher education research analysis techniques
  • Key ResultMentor and guide 2 junior research analysts to improve their capability development
  • TaskProvide direct training on necessary software/tools
  • TaskDevelop a personalized growth plan for each analyst
  • TaskEstablish regular weekly meetings for guidance and feedback
  • Key ResultDevelop, present, and implement 1 strategic initiative to improve research methodologies
  • TaskIdentify weakness in current research methodologies
  • TaskCreate strategic initiative for process improvement
  • TaskPresent and implement strategy to team

2OKRs to launch machine learning product on website

  • ObjectiveLaunch machine learning product on website
  • Key ResultGenerate at least 100 sign-ups for the machine learning product through website registration
  • TaskCollaborate with influencers or industry experts to promote the machine learning product
  • TaskImplement targeted online advertising campaigns to drive traffic to the website
  • TaskOptimize website registration page to increase conversion rate
  • TaskRun referral programs and offer incentives to encourage users to refer others
  • Key ResultGenerate a revenue of $50,000 from sales of the machine learning product
  • TaskImplement effective online advertising and social media campaigns to reach potential customers
  • TaskIdentify target market and create a comprehensive marketing strategy for machine learning product
  • TaskTrain sales team and provide them with necessary resources to effectively promote machine learning product
  • TaskConduct market research to determine competitive pricing and set optimal price point
  • Key ResultIncrease website traffic by 20% through targeted marketing campaigns
  • TaskOptimize website content with relevant keywords to improve organic search rankings
  • TaskConduct extensive keyword research to identify high-performing search terms
  • TaskDevelop and implement targeted advertising campaigns on social media platforms
  • TaskCollaborate with industry influencers to gain exposure and drive traffic to the website
  • Key ResultAchieve a customer satisfaction rating of 4 out of 5 through user feedback surveys
  • TaskAnalyze feedback survey data to identify areas for improvement and prioritize actions
  • TaskContinuously monitor customer satisfaction ratings and adjust strategies as needed for improvement
  • TaskImplement changes and improvements based on user feedback to enhance customer satisfaction
  • TaskDevelop and distribute user feedback surveys to gather customer satisfaction ratings

3OKRs to attain an affordable, emissions-free vehicle

  • ObjectiveAttain an affordable, emissions-free vehicle
  • Key ResultTest drive and analyze key features of at least three selected cars
  • TaskSchedule test drives for each selected car
  • TaskAnalyze and compare the key features post-drive
  • TaskSelect three cars based on preferences and research
  • Key ResultResearch and identify ten potential C02-free cars within $30,000 range
  • TaskGenerate a list of CO2-free car manufacturers within your budget
  • TaskObtain pricing details for each potential car model
  • TaskEvaluate and list ten viable options based on research
  • Key ResultFinalize purchase of a suitable C02-free car under $30,000
  • TaskContact dealerships for negotiations and details
  • TaskConclude purchase and documentation forms
  • TaskResearch and shortlist C02-free cars within the budget

4OKRs to develop a comprehensive new customer database

  • ObjectiveDevelop a comprehensive new customer database
  • Key ResultAchieve 100% data entry accuracy for new customer database
  • TaskTrain team on high-standard data entry protocols
  • TaskImplement stringent data verification processes
  • TaskUse software to identify and correct errors
  • Key ResultIdentify 500 potential customers for inclusion in new customer database
  • TaskGather contact details for decision-makers at these companies
  • TaskResearch industries relevant to our product/service
  • TaskCompile a list of companies within these industries
  • Key ResultCollect accurate contact and preference information from 100% of identified customers
  • TaskImplement a system to regularly update customer data
  • TaskTrain staff on preference elicitation techniques
  • TaskDevelop a standardized customer information collection form

5OKRs to enhance service delivery through innovation and benchmarking

  • ObjectiveEnhance service delivery through innovation and benchmarking
  • Key ResultCreate and implement 2 innovative solutions to transform existing services
  • TaskDevelop prototypes of the 2 selected solutions
  • TaskImplement and test these innovative solutions in live services
  • TaskBrainstorm new, innovative ways to enhance current services
  • Key ResultBenchmark against 5 industry leaders to identify and implement best practices
  • TaskAnalyze their best practices and methodologies
  • TaskIdentify top 5 industry leaders for benchmark comparison
  • TaskIncorporate identified best practices into our operations
  • Key ResultIncrease service delivery efficiency by 30% using new technological advancements
  • TaskInvestigate latest technology advancements in service delivery
  • TaskMonitor and evaluate tech system effectiveness regularly
  • TaskImplement new tech systems to streamline service processes

6OKRs to improve knowledge of ozonation process

  • ObjectiveImprove knowledge of ozonation process
  • Key ResultReview and understand five new research articles on ozonation every week
  • Key ResultConduct two small-scale ozonation experiments for better comprehension
  • TaskPlan and prepare the experimental procedures
  • TaskGather necessary equipment and materials for ozonation experiments
  • TaskExecute the two small-scale ozonation experiments
  • Key ResultIncrease discussion and learning opportunities with experts by arranging four seminars/meetings
  • TaskPlan the logistics for the four seminars/meetings
  • TaskInvite the experts and promote the events
  • TaskIdentify potential experts in the desired field

7OKRs to successfully execute "Test Objective"

  • ObjectiveSuccessfully execute "Test Objective"
  • Key ResultDeliver final report documenting the results and lessons learned
  • TaskDocument lessons learned and improvement strategies
  • TaskFinalize and proofread the final report
  • TaskHighlight primary results and key findings
  • Key ResultComplete initial research and preparation by Week 2
  • TaskDedicate Day 8 to thorough examination of available resources
  • TaskFinalize and document findings and preparations by Day 14
  • TaskDefine research objectives and desired outcomes by Day 6
  • Key ResultAchieve 25% progress towards "Test Objective" every week
  • TaskAssess weekly targets and track progress consistently
  • TaskActively utilize learning resources to understand concepts better
  • TaskAllocate dedicated time daily for focused test preparation

8OKRs to successfully implement a coherent MYEO Theory of Change Framework

  • ObjectiveSuccessfully implement a coherent MYEO Theory of Change Framework
  • Key ResultConduct a detailed research on MYEO's needs for a Theory of Change Framework by month end
  • TaskReview existing internal documents about MYEO's goals
  • TaskCompile findings into a comprehensive report
  • TaskIdentify key stakeholders within MYEO for research interviews
  • Key ResultAchieve 90% user acceptance of the new framework within the first two weeks of roll-out
  • TaskRegularly monitor and address user issues
  • TaskImplement a communication strategy for feedback
  • TaskConduct thorough user training programs for the new framework
  • Key ResultDesign a tailor-made Theory of Change Framework for MYEO in 6 weeks
  • TaskConstruct and refine the theory framework
  • TaskDevelop a strategic plan with action steps
  • TaskIdentify specific, measurable goals for MYEO

9OKRs to identify and assess AI tools available in the market

  • ObjectiveIdentify and assess AI tools available in the market
  • Key ResultEvaluate 10 potential AI tools against predefined criteria by the end of Q2
  • TaskResearch and select 10 AI tools for review
  • TaskAssign scores to each tool based on criteria
  • TaskDefine specific criteria for evaluation
  • Key ResultCompile a detailed report illustrating the pros and cons of each examined tool
  • TaskIdentify and examine each tool's features
  • TaskCompile detailed comparison report
  • TaskAnalyze pros and cons of each tool
  • Key ResultConduct 20 market interviews to determine popular AI tools amongst industry experts
  • TaskDraft comprehensive, insightful interview questions
  • TaskConduct, record and analyze the interviews
  • TaskIdentify and target 20 industry experts in AI

10OKRs to evaluate ozonation's effect on biofiltration process

  • ObjectiveEvaluate ozonation's effect on biofiltration process
  • Key ResultEstablish a link between ozonation levels and biofiltration effectiveness in 75% of tests
  • TaskDevelop a standardized testing method
  • TaskConduct and analyze tests on biofiltration effectiveness
  • TaskStudy previous research on ozonation and biofiltration
  • Key ResultConduct 10 experiments to identify specific ozonation impacts on biofilter microbiomes
  • TaskDefine parameters for specific ozonation impacts
  • TaskAnalyze and record the results after ozonation
  • TaskSet up 10 different biofilter microbiome experiments
  • Key ResultPublish a comprehensive report analyzing and proposing enhancements to the ozonation-biofiltration setup
  • TaskConduct research on existing ozonation-biofiltration technologies
  • TaskAnalyze and draft improvements for current setup
  • TaskCompile and publish comprehensive final report

11OKRs to enhance product research systems and procedures

  • ObjectiveEnhance product research systems and procedures
  • Key ResultReduce product research errors by 15% through revamped procedures
  • TaskEstablish a strict quality control protocol
  • TaskDevelop a detailed research checklist
  • TaskImplement more rigorous product research training
  • Key ResultIncrease process efficiency by 25% using improved research systems
  • TaskEvaluate and restructure inefficient parts of workflow
  • TaskTrain team on strategies to fully utilize advanced systems
  • TaskImplement new, innovative research systems in existing processes
  • Key ResultImplement feedback mechanism to optimize product research process by the end of the quarter
  • TaskIntegrate the feedback system into the current research workflow
  • TaskDesign a feedback survey tailored to the product research process
  • TaskAnalyze and apply the collected feedback to improve the process

12OKRs to boost sales figures utilizing CAIS distribution team

  • ObjectiveBoost sales figures utilizing CAIS distribution team
  • Key ResultIncrease average sales per team member by at least 15%
  • TaskSet up performance incentives for higher sales
  • TaskImplement regular sales training programs for team members
  • TaskMonitor and share individual sales performance regularly
  • Key ResultSecure 10 new high-value clients through strategic distribution efforts
  • TaskLaunch a personalized, strategic outreach and follow-up process
  • TaskDevelop targeted marketing materials for these potential clients
  • TaskIdentify potential high-value clients based on our market research
  • Key ResultAchieve a 10% reduction in sales cycle time for major accounts
  • TaskImplement training on efficient sales strategies for major accounts
  • TaskEnhance communication with key clients to expedite decisions
  • TaskAnalyze previous deals to identify common delays or inefficiencies

13OKRs to launch a high-performing ecommerce dashboard for the UK market

  • ObjectiveLaunch a high-performing ecommerce dashboard for the UK market
  • Key ResultAssemble an agile team with relevant expertise by week 2
  • TaskInterview potential team members assessing their agility
  • TaskIdentify required skills and expertise for the team
  • TaskSelect and onboard team members by week 2
  • Key ResultComplete comprehensive market research and data analysis within the first month
  • TaskDraft and refine comprehensive research report
  • TaskIdentify target market and key competitors
  • TaskGather, analyze and interpret relevant data
  • Key ResultExecute a successful beta test with 90% positive user experience by the end of week 6
  • TaskEstablish clear, measurable success criteria for user experience
  • TaskMonitor feedback, iterations and improvements closely
  • TaskBeta-release software to a diverse group of testers

14OKRs to identify and assess new growth opportunities

  • ObjectiveIdentify and assess new growth opportunities
  • Key ResultConduct detailed feasibility studies for identified opportunities to determine viability
  • TaskEvaluate viability based on research outcomes
  • TaskIdentify opportunities for feasibility study
  • TaskPerform detailed review of business prospects
  • Key ResultResearch and pinpoint 10 potential new market areas for business expansion
  • TaskAnalyse findings to determine viability for business expansion
  • TaskIdentify sectors and industries where our business can potentially expand
  • TaskConduct detailed market research on the 10 identified areas
  • Key ResultDevelop and present 5 comprehensive business proposals for promising opportunities
  • TaskDevelop comprehensive proposals for each opportunity
  • TaskPrepare presentations for each business proposal
  • TaskIdentify 5 promising business opportunities for proposal

15OKRs to implement strategies to enhance sustainable revenue growth

  • ObjectiveImplement strategies to enhance sustainable revenue growth
  • Key ResultSecure at least 10 new B2B partnerships for an expected sales increase of 20%
  • TaskNegotiate partnership terms and finalize agreements
  • TaskIdentify and list potential B2B partnership targets
  • TaskInitiate contact and set meetings with the targets
  • Key ResultIncrease customer retention rate by 15% through customer satisfaction strategies
  • Key ResultBoost market penetration in untapped regions by 25% to grow brand presence
  • TaskPerform market research to identify potential untapped regions
  • TaskDevelop tailored marketing strategies for these regions
  • TaskImplement intensive promotional campaigns in targeted regions

Research Team OKR best practices to boost success

Generally speaking, your objectives should be ambitious yet achievable, and your key results should be measurable and time-bound (using the SMART framework can be helpful). It is also recommended to list strategic initiatives under your key results, as it'll help you avoid the common mistake of listing projects in your KRs.

Here are a couple of best practices extracted from our OKR implementation guide 👇

Tip #1: Limit the number of key results

Focus can only be achieve by limiting the number of competing priorities. It is crucial that you take the time to identify where you need to move the needle, and avoid adding business-as-usual activities to your OKRs.

We recommend having 3-4 objectives, and 3-4 key results per objective. A platform like Tability can run audits on your data to help you identify the plans that have too many goals.

Tability Insights DashboardTability's audit dashboard will highlight opportunities to improve OKRs

Tip #2: Commit to weekly OKR check-ins

Having good goals is only half the effort. You'll get significant more value from your OKRs if you commit to a weekly check-in process.

Being able to see trends for your key results will also keep yourself honest.

Tability Insights DashboardTability's check-ins will save you hours and increase transparency

Tip #3: No more than 2 yellow statuses in a row

Yes, this is another tip for goal-tracking instead of goal-setting (but you'll get plenty of OKR examples above). But, once you have your goals defined, it will be your ability to keep the right sense of urgency that will make the difference.

As a rule of thumb, it's best to avoid having more than 2 yellow/at risk statuses in a row.

Make a call on the 3rd update. You should be either back on track, or off track. This sounds harsh but it's the best way to signal risks early enough to fix things.

How to turn your Research Team OKRs in a strategy map

OKRs without regular progress updates are just KPIs. You'll need to update progress on your OKRs every week to get the full benefits from the framework. Reviewing progress periodically has several advantages:

  • It brings the goals back to the top of the mind
  • It will highlight poorly set OKRs
  • It will surface execution risks
  • It improves transparency and accountability

Spreadsheets are enough to get started. Then, once you need to scale you can use a proper OKR platform to make things easier.

A strategy map in TabilityTability's Strategy Map makes it easy to see all your org's OKRs

If you're not yet set on a tool, you can check out the 5 best OKR tracking templates guide to find the best way to monitor progress during the quarter.

More Research Team OKR templates

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

OKRs resources

Here are a list of resources to help you adopt the Objectives and Key Results framework.

Create more examples in our app

You can use Tability to create OKRs with AI – and keep yourself accountable 👀

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