SBP017: What is a Key Performance Indicator or KPI?

What is a Key Performance Indicator?    A KPI is a measure of performance used to measure progress towards a target / a goal / a desired state.    A KPI is different from a  metric. A metric is anything that can be measured:    Height  Length  Weight  The number Sales orders  The Value of fixed assets    A metric becomes a KPI when you link it to a goal and have a clearly defined target to pursue and evaluate against. It also needs to be assigned to someone.    Tip:  Ensure that your KPIs are aligned to goals and have clearly define targets and someone is accountable.