S9: E17 Using OKRs to transform the business, hear from a Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft
Oct 9, 2023
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Ryan Lowdermilk, Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft, discusses the implementation and transformation of OKRs at Microsoft, emphasizing the importance of organizations working together and the benefits of organic sharing of Key Results. He also explores psychological safety, accountability, underperformance, and scaling OKRs in a large organization like Microsoft.
OKRs require time, patience, and executive sponsorship for long-term success.
Taking an organic approach and conducting weekly coaching sessions are crucial for driving the success of OKRs.
Deep dives
The Importance of Time and Executive Sponsorship in Implementing OKRs
Ryan highlights the crucial role of time and executive sponsorship in successfully implementing OKRs. He emphasizes that OKRs require a significant investment of time and patience to see long-term results. Ryan also mentions the importance of leadership modeling a growth mindset and creating psychological safety within the organization. He believes that OKRs are a powerful tool for supporting personal and professional development, but it requires a commitment to learning, failing, and continuous improvement.
The Organic Approach and the Role of Coaching in OKR Implementation
Ryan discusses the benefits of taking an organic approach to OKR implementation. He believes in allowing OKRs to evolve organically while providing a few guiding principles and rules. Ryan also emphasizes the significance of weekly coaching sessions in driving the success of OKRs. He shares how coaching for just 15 minutes every week has had a profound impact on the growth and development of individuals and teams. Ryan highlights the importance of psychological safety in creating an environment where people can have open conversations and hold each other accountable.
Expanding OKR Implementation and the Future at Microsoft
Ryan shares his future plans for OKRs at Microsoft. He mentions the expansion of OKR implementation to other teams within the organization, driven by the success and visibility of their current efforts. Ryan acknowledges the challenges of scaling OKRs in a large organization but believes in the transformative power of OKRs to drive organizational alignment, focus, and growth. He emphasizes the need for continued focus on individual growth and leadership development, giving employees the tools to lead effectively and transform the business.
Welcome back to Giant Talk, the world’s first OKR podcast.
In this episode, Roger chats to Ryan Lowdermilk, Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft, an OKR Champion and OKR Coach for the Microsoft Tech team for the America’s. Ryan chats to Roger about the use of OKRs at Microsoft, how OKRs can break through the hierarchy and why OKRs should be a light lift.
Enjoy the episode!
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