Career glossary

What is KPI (Key Performance Indicator)?

A KPI (Key Performance Indicator) is a measurable value that shows how effectively you or a team are achieving a specific objective.

Also called: Key Performance IndicatorPerformance metric

Key takeaways

  • A KPI (Key Performance Indicator) is a measurable value that shows how effectively you or a team are achieving a specific objective.
  • KPI (Key Performance Indicator) matters when you read a salary slip, compare job offers, or plan your career.
  • Knowing how KPI (Key Performance Indicator) works helps you make sharper, better-informed job decisions.
Definition

KPI (Key Performance Indicator) — meaning & explanation

A Key Performance Indicator is a quantifiable metric used to track progress toward a goal. KPIs put numbers on performance — for example, deals closed, tickets resolved or uptime maintained — depending on the role.

In India, KPIs typically sit within your KRAs and feed directly into appraisals and variable-pay decisions. Clear KPIs make performance objective and comparable across a team.

Knowing your KPIs tells you exactly what is being measured and how your raise or bonus is decided. Tracking them through the year helps you demonstrate impact at appraisal time.

Related terms

Related glossary terms

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KPI (Key Performance Indicator) — FAQs

What does KPI (Key Performance Indicator) mean?

A KPI (Key Performance Indicator) is a measurable value that shows how effectively you or a team are achieving a specific objective.

Why does KPI (Key Performance Indicator) matter to a jobseeker?

Knowing your KPIs tells you exactly what is being measured and how your raise or bonus is decided. Tracking them through the year helps you demonstrate impact at appraisal time.

Is KPI (Key Performance Indicator) the same as Key Performance Indicator?

Yes — KPI (Key Performance Indicator) is also commonly called Key Performance Indicator, Performance metric. A KPI (Key Performance Indicator) is a measurable value that shows how effectively you or a team are achieving a specific objective.

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