Quarterly Objective Setting Meetings
Objective Setting Meetings are a collaborative activity involving members of the Ecosystem Team and the Enabling Team. The purpose of this meeting is to align on the current strategy and set specific, achievable objectives for the upcoming quarter.
Goal
The outcome of the Objective Setting Meeting is that the Enabling Team have both clear direction and goals for the coming quarter as well as buy-in to achieve the goals.
Context
An ecosystem requires multiple different types of team working together to achieve a common goal. The Objective Setting Meeting ensures that the Enabling Team is aligned with the broader business strategy and that their objectives are in line with the ecosystem's vision and strategy. This alignment is crucial for ensuring that the Enabling Team's efforts are contributing to the overall success of the ecosystem.
Inputs
| Artifact | Description |
|---|---|
| OKRs | Previous objectives and key results set by the Enabling Team and the Ecosystem Team. |
| Ecosystem Vision | A high-level and inspirational description of where the ecosystem will be in 5 - 10 years. |
| Ecosystem Strategy | A high-level plan for achieving the ecosystem vision within the next 1-3 years. |
| Product Performance Data | Data on the performance of the product, including usage, engagement, and customer satisfaction. |
| Business Objectives | High-level strategic goals that the Ecosystem Team aims to achieve in the coming year. |
Outputs
| Format | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) | Objectives define the desired outcomes, and key results are the measurable steps to achieve them. |
|
Rationale
OKRs are a widely known and used framework for setting and tracking objectives which makes them easier to adopt. The structure aligns with the ZeroBlockers approach of setting outcomes instead of outputs. Finally, given the quarterly timeline, there is a deadline that provides motivation for achieving the objectives without reverting to strict time and cost measurements.
Anti-patterns
- Setting vague objectives: Goals that are not specific or measurable lead to confusion, lack of direction and can risk the ecosystem's perception of the value of the Enabling Team.
- Overcommitment: Setting too many objectives or targets that are unachievable within the timeframe can demotivate the team.
- One-way communication: Failing to involve the team in the objective-setting process can lead to lower quality objectives as well as a lack of buy-in and commitment.