Nmblr Focus Step 4: Define KPIs (lead + lag indicators)
Purpose of this step: This step exists to turn measurement into learning. KPIs are not a reporting exercise — they are the signals that let you tweak and refine strategy based on what you learn. Importantly, these KPIs measure progress of the strategy, not just completion of the goals.
Facilitator guidance
- For each strategic imperative, invite the team to create choice by brainstorming potential KPIs.
- Hold the full logic in mind as you do: the behaviour you’re trying to compel, the feeling that drives it, the distinctive capabilities, and the near-term outcomes.
- Identify ideas for both:
- Lead indicators (early warning signals you’re on/off track)
- Lag indicators (more concrete proof of progress)
- Then make the choice: decide what you must track (less is more).
- Make it practical: define what you’ll measure, your ambition/target, how often you’ll measure it, and whether it’s tracked centrally or by each country.
- Get the team’s commitment to track them.
A useful question for the team to end this step:
If results start to drift, will these KPIs tell us early enough to respond — while choices are still reversible?