Goals, Signals, and Measures
This method aligns teams by establishing clear goals, identifying signals that indicate progress, and defining measurable outcomes before a project begins. It ensures everyone understands what success looks like and how their work contributes to the overall objective.
Use this method at the start of a new project or when a team is misaligned on priorities to create a shared understanding of success and how to measure it.
Solves: Teams focusing on outputs rather than outcomes, leading to a false sense of accomplishment and difficulty in assessing the true impact of their work.
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Step 1: Set the Stage (10 min) - Project owner clarifies the project's link to the team's broader mission. Allow time for questions and discussion to ensure everyone is aligned.
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Step 2: Brainstorm Goals (15 min) - Individually brainstorm possible goals, focusing on outcomes rather than outputs. Write each idea on a sticky note and post them for everyone to see.
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Step 3: Prioritize (10 min) - Narrow down the goals to the top three using a 'No,' 'Maybe,' 'Yes' prioritization table. Assign an owner to each of the selected goals.
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Step 4: Signals (15 min) - For each goal, identify signals (KPIs) that indicate progress towards achieving the outcome. Spend 5 minutes per goal.
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Step 5: Measures (30 min) - Define specific, measurable outcomes for each goal. Avoid binary measures and encourage bold targets. Break into smaller groups if needed.
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Step 6: Wrap it Up (10 min) - Review the goals, signals, and measures to ensure they align and are achievable. Create a task list for gathering resources and tracking progress.
- Remind participants to focus on outcomes, not just outputs, when brainstorming goals.
- Encourage bold measures that stretch the team's capabilities.
- Use dot voting to prioritize goals if there are many options or divergent opinions.
- Run a Trade-off Sliders play to help determine which goals deliver the greatest value.