May 1, 2024
Updated May 10, 2025
22 minute read
Key Performance Indicators, or KPIs, are measurable values that demonstrate how effectively a company is achieving key business objectives. Organizations use KPIs at various levels to track progress towards strategic goals and make informed decisions. Think of them as a ship's compass, guiding the vessel towards its intended destination. Selecting the right KPIs is crucial; the right ones keep you on course, while poorly chosen ones can leave you adrift, measuring things that don't truly contribute to success.
Working with KPIs can be an engaging and exciting endeavor. It involves dissecting complex business processes, identifying critical success factors, and translating them into measurable metrics. This analytical aspect appeals to those who enjoy problem-solving and data-driven decision-making. Furthermore, the ability to directly influence and track the performance of an organization or a specific project provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and impact. The insights derived from KPI analysis can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, effectiveness, and overall business outcomes.
Introduction to KPIs
This section will lay the groundwork for understanding KPIs, defining their core purpose, tracing their historical development, and illustrating their application across various industries with basic examples.
Definition and Core Purpose of KPIs
0lld8d|
Find a path to becoming a KPIs. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/0lld8d/kpi
Reading list
We've selected five books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
KPIs.
By David Parmenter provides a comprehensive overview of KPIs, including their development, implementation, and use. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals looking to enhance their understanding of KPIs.
By Paul Niven offers a comprehensive guide to developing and using KPIs. It includes practical examples and case studies to illustrate the application of KPIs in various industries.
By Bain & Company provides a guide to using KPIs for effective decision making. It covers the selection, development, and use of KPIs to improve organizational performance.
By David Evans explores KPIs for customer relationship management (CRM). It provides practical insights into how to develop and use KPIs to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.
By Paul Myerson and Stephen Watson covers KPIs for supply chain management. It provides guidance on how to develop and use KPIs to improve supply chain efficiency and effectiveness.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/0lld8d/kpi