Not every OKR goes according to plan. Teams fall behind, metrics stall, or shifting priorities throw goals off track. The key isn’t to punish underperformance — it’s to uncover the root cause, make smart adjustments, and restore momentum.
This workflow gives you a structured approach to evaluate struggling OKRs and take corrective action before the cycle ends.
Step 1 – Spot Underperforming OKRs Early
Objective: Identify issues before they derail the cycle.
- Use Red/Yellow/Green status updates in weekly check-ins.
- Track confidence ratings (High/Medium/Low).
- Watch for Key Results stuck at the same percentage for weeks.
- Encourage owners to raise concerns proactively.
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Step 2 – Diagnose the Root Cause
Objective: Understand why progress is lagging.
- Ask the 5 Whys to drill into underlying issues.
- Separate internal vs. external blockers.
- Check for unrealistic goal-setting or unclear ownership.
- Involve contributors for a 360° view of the problem.
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Step 3 – Reassess the Key Result
Objective: Decide whether to adapt, adjust, or stay the course.
- If the KR is still achievable, create a recovery plan.
- If it’s unrealistic, adjust the target or scope transparently.
- If priorities have shifted, consider retiring the KR.
- Document rationale for any changes.
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Step 4 – Build a Recovery Plan
Objective: Create a clear, time-bound path to improvement.
- Define specific catch-up actions with deadlines.
- Reallocate resources to support the struggling KR.
- Assign a “blocker owner” to remove obstacles.
- Add mid-week progress check-ins for critical KRs.
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Step 5 – Communicate Adjustments
Objective: Maintain transparency and trust across teams.
- Share updates in weekly check-ins or all-hands.
- Clearly mark adjusted KRs in dashboards.
- Explain why changes were made to avoid confusion.
- Celebrate improvements, even partial recoveries.
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Step 6 – Capture Learnings in the Retrospective
Objective: Prevent recurring issues in future cycles.
- Discuss what caused underperformance.
- Identify systemic issues (overcommitment, misaligned metrics, lack of ownership).
- Update your OKR playbook with new guardrails.
- Use learnings in the next planning session.
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Pro Tips for Handling Underperforming OKRs
- Normalize “Red” status — it’s a signal, not a failure.
- Focus on problem-solving, not blame.
- Adjust goals sparingly to maintain ambition but avoid burnout.
- Track recurring underperformance patterns over multiple cycles.
The Bottom Line
Underperforming OKRs are inevitable — but they don’t have to mean failure. With the right workflow, you can diagnose issues, adapt quickly, and turn setbacks into momentum for future success.
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