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10 OKR examples for Developer

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What are Developer 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.

Crafting effective OKRs can be challenging, particularly for beginners. Emphasizing outcomes rather than projects should be the core of your planning.

We have a collection of OKRs examples for Developer to give you some inspiration. You can use any of the templates below as a starting point for your OKRs.

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

Developer OKRs examples

You'll find below a list of Objectives and Key Results templates for Developer. 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!

OKRs to improve AI security requirements operationalization for developers’ comprehension

  • ObjectiveImprove AI security requirements operationalization for developers’ comprehension
  • KRDevelop and deploy a standardized AI security guideline by 25%
  • TaskDraft a comprehensive AI security guideline
  • TaskReduce guideline by 25% focusing on core elements
  • TaskImplement the streamlined AI security guideline across all systems
  • KRReduce misunderstandings in AI security requirements by 30% through improved documentation
  • TaskConduct regular staff trainings highlighting documentation procedures
  • TaskEstablish clear, concise writing guidelines for technical content
  • TaskImplement a standardized format for all AI security requirement documents
  • KRConduct bi-weekly developer trainings on new AI security protocols resulting in 80% adherence

OKRs to amplify developer involvement in epic definition and prioritization

  • ObjectiveAmplify developer involvement in epic definition and prioritization
  • KRObtain 90% positive feedback from developers on their influence in defining epics
  • TaskImplement a regular feedback mechanism from developers
  • TaskConduct training on defining epics for developers
  • TaskInvolve developers in epic creation process
  • KRTrain 80% of developers in advanced epic creation and prioritization techniques
  • TaskIdentify suitable training programs on epic creation and prioritization
  • TaskMonitor and track developer training progress
  • TaskEnroll developers in identified training programs
  • KRAchieve 30% increase in developer-led epic prioritization based on weekly reports
  • TaskEstablish incentives for achieving prioritization targets
  • TaskImplement training sessions to improve developer's prioritization skills
  • TaskEnhance weekly reporting system to track progress

OKRs to enhance the integration platform and developer environment

  • ObjectiveEnhance the integration platform and developer environment
  • KRReduce reported developer issues and bugs by 20%
  • TaskInvest in automated testing tools and techniques
  • TaskImplement strict code review process before code integration
  • TaskTrain developers on best coding practices
  • KRAchieve a 25% improvement in developer platform usability survey ratings
  • TaskCreate clear and concise platform documentation
  • TaskImplement usability enhancements based on user feedback
  • TaskOffer training on platform updates to developers
  • KRIncrease platform integration capabilities by 30%
  • TaskIncrease workforce expertise in platform integration
  • TaskResearch and adopt more adaptable integration APIs
  • TaskImprove system scalability and robustness

OKRs to improve CI infrastructure by migrating to a modern provider

  • ObjectiveImprove CI infrastructure by migrating to a modern provider
  • KRAchieve 99% uptime for the CI infrastructure on the new provider
  • KRIncrease developer satisfaction by implementing user-friendly and intuitive CI tools
  • TaskProvide training and documentation to ensure developers can effectively use the new CI tools
  • TaskRegularly solicit feedback and make improvements to the CI tools based on developers' input
  • TaskResearch and select user-friendly and intuitive CI tools that meet developers' needs
  • TaskConduct a survey to gather feedback and pain points from developers
  • KRReduce average build time by 20% through optimization of CI pipeline processes
  • TaskOptimize build scripts and dependencies for faster compilation and build times
  • TaskUtilize caching mechanisms to reduce redundant steps and speed up the build process
  • TaskImplement parallel builds and distribute test suites across multiple agents
  • TaskAnalyze current CI pipeline bottlenecks and identify areas for improvement
  • KRSuccessfully migrate all CI repositories and configurations to the new provider
  • TaskAnalyze current CI repositories and configurations
  • TaskCreate a detailed plan for migrating repositories and configurations
  • TaskTest the migration process on a sample repository
  • TaskExecute the migration of all CI repositories and configurations

OKRs to expand expertise and productivity as a Shopify theme developer

  • ObjectiveExpand expertise and productivity as a Shopify theme developer
  • KRIncrease client satisfaction rates by 20% through improved theme functionality and design
  • TaskSolicit client feedback for actionable insights on theme enhancements
  • TaskRevamp website themes for enhanced visual appeal and functionality
  • TaskConduct usability tests to identify potential design improvements
  • KRDevelop and successfully deploy three new Shopify themes
  • TaskResearch and design three unique layouts for the new Shopify themes
  • TaskSuccessfully deploy each new theme on Shopify's platform
  • TaskImplement and thoroughly test coding for each theme
  • KRObtain advanced certification in Shopify theme development within the quarter
  • TaskTake and pass the certification exam
  • TaskRegister and complete chosen certification course
  • TaskIdentify relevant Shopify theme development certification courses

OKRs to enhance tactical and strategic leadership skills for software developer team lead

  • ObjectiveEnhance tactical and strategic leadership skills for software developer team lead
  • KRMentor 2 team members to take on micro-leadership roles in the next project
  • TaskProvide regular feedback and coaching
  • TaskShare responsibilities and explain expectations clearly
  • TaskIdentify strengths and areas of growth for each team member
  • KRImplement new strategies and witness a minimum 15% increase in team productivity
  • TaskDevelop and communicate new strategies for identified areas
  • TaskIdentify areas in team processes that require improvement
  • TaskMonitor and measure strategy-driven productivity increases
  • KRCollaborate with HR to attend at least 3 leadership skill training or workshops
  • TaskContact HR to inquire about available leadership training opportunities
  • TaskParticipate actively in each workshop session
  • TaskSchedule times to attend three chosen sessions

OKRs to improve web and mobile user experience parity

  • ObjectiveImprove web and mobile user experience parity
  • KRIncrease the number of user interactions per session on web and mobile by 15%
  • TaskUtilize personalized recommendations and tailored notifications to engage users and promote interaction
  • TaskOptimize the user interface to enhance navigation and encourage exploring the platform
  • TaskImplement gamification elements to motivate users and incentivize repeat interactions
  • TaskImprove content quality and relevance to increase user engagement and time spent on platform
  • KRReduce the number of critical bugs reported on web and mobile by 30%
  • TaskProvide regular training to the development team on best practices for bug prevention
  • TaskImprove communication between developers and QA team to address critical bug issues efficiently
  • TaskImplement automated testing to catch critical bugs early in the development process
  • TaskConduct thorough code reviews for web and mobile apps before deployment
  • KRIncrease user satisfaction rating for web and mobile platforms by 10%
  • TaskImprove user interface design to enhance user experience and navigation
  • TaskProvide personalized and responsive customer support to address user inquiries and concerns
  • TaskConduct user surveys and gather feedback to identify pain points and areas for improvement
  • TaskImplement faster loading times and optimize performance for seamless user interaction
  • KRDecrease average load time for mobile devices by 20%
  • TaskOptimize server response time by identifying and resolving any bottlenecks or performance issues
  • TaskMinify CSS and JavaScript files to reduce their file size and improve loading times
  • TaskImplement caching mechanisms to store and deliver frequently accessed data more efficiently
  • TaskOptimize images by compressing and reducing their file sizes without loss of quality

OKRs to enhance backend tech knowledge of two front-end developers

  • ObjectiveEnhance backend tech knowledge of two front-end developers
  • KRConduct 4 comprehensive interactive workshops on different backend technologies
  • TaskCreate marketing campaign to promote workshops
  • TaskSchedule and organize the workshop logistics
  • TaskIdentify topics and experts for each backend technology workshop
  • KREnsure regular practical assignments for hands-on experience with feedback
  • TaskDevelop a schedule for regular practical assignments
  • TaskMonitor and adjust assignments based on feedback
  • TaskImplement a system for providing constructive feedback
  • KRAchieve 80% improvement in their backend coding skills through weekly testing
  • TaskTake weekly tests to assess improvement
  • TaskDedicate five hours weekly for coding practice
  • TaskEnroll in a reputed online backend coding course

OKRs to achieve proficiency as a middle level java developer

  • ObjectiveAchieve proficiency as a middle level java developer
  • KRSuccessfully finish 2+ programming projects utilizing complex Java frameworks
  • TaskDedicate time each day to coding and project progress
  • TaskContinuously test and debug until projects are completed
  • TaskSelect two projects utilizing complex Java frameworks
  • KRGet certified as a Sun Certified Java Programmer
  • TaskStudy and complete any prerequisite coursework or training
  • TaskResearch requirements for Sun Certified Java Programmer certification
  • TaskRegister and pass the certification exam
  • KRComplete 3 advanced Java courses with a score of 85% or higher
  • TaskDedicate time daily to studying course material
  • TaskAim to achieve at least 85% on all tests/assignments
  • TaskResearch and enroll in 3 advanced Java courses

OKRs to enhance skills to become a proficient Shopify app developer

  • ObjectiveEnhance skills to become a proficient Shopify app developer
  • KRDevelop and publish two new Shopify apps with user ratings above 4.5
  • TaskDesign, build, and test two unique Shopify apps
  • TaskLaunch a marketing campaign to encourage high user ratings and feedback
  • TaskResearch popular Shopify apps and identify areas for improvement
  • KRComplete an advanced Shopify app development course with at least 90% score
  • TaskStrive to obtain at least a 90% score on all tests
  • TaskRegister for an advanced Shopify app development course
  • TaskConsistently study course materials to master the subject
  • KRResolve 95% of identified issues in existing apps within 48 hours
  • TaskPrioritize urgent issues that currently affect app functionality
  • TaskAllocate sufficient resources for timely resolution
  • TaskEstablish a rigorous follow-up process post-resolution

How to write your own Developer OKRs

1. Get tailored OKRs with an AI

You'll find some examples below, but it's likely that you have very specific needs that won't be covered.

You can use Tability's AI generator to create tailored OKRs based on your specific context. Tability can turn your objective description into a fully editable OKR template -- including tips to help you refine your goals.

Tability will then use your prompt to generate a fully editable OKR template.

Watch the video below to see it in action 👇

Option 2. Optimise existing OKRs with Tability Feedback tool

If you already have existing goals, and you want to improve them. You can use Tability's AI feedback to help you.

AI feedback for OKRs in TabilityTability's Strategy Map makes it easy to see all your org's OKRs

Tability will scan your OKRs and offer different suggestions to improve them. This can range from a small rewrite of a statement to make it clearer to a complete rewrite of the entire OKR.

You can then decide to accept the suggestions or dismiss them if you don't agree.

Option 3. Use the free OKR generator

If you're just looking for some quick inspiration, you can also use our free OKR generator to get a template.

Unlike with Tability, you won't be able to iterate on the templates, but this is still a great way to get started.

Developer OKR best practices

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

The #1 role of OKRs is to help you and your team focus on what really matters. Business-as-usual activities will still be happening, but you do not need to track your entire roadmap in the 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.

Tip #2: Commit to weekly OKR check-ins

Don't fall into the set-and-forget trap. It is important to adopt a weekly check-in process to get the full value of your OKRs and make your strategy agile – otherwise this is nothing more than a reporting exercise.

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

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 track your Developer OKRs

Your quarterly OKRs should be tracked weekly in order to get all the benefits of the OKRs framework. Reviewing progress periodically has several advantages:

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

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 Developer OKR templates

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

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