Book Your Free Strategy Session:

Sign Up
Home » Encyclopedia Terms » Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Definition

Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Definition

Definition: A key performance indicator (KPI) is a measurable value that shows how effectively a business, team, or individual is achieving a specific goal. KPIs are tracked over time to evaluate performance, identify areas for improvement, and guide decision-making. Whether it’s revenue growth, customer retention, or website traffic, KPIs provide a clear benchmark for success.

Example in a Sentence: The marketing team set a new key performance indicator (KPI) for increasing organic website traffic by 25% in the next quarter.

Why are Key Performance Indicators Important?

1. Measure Progress Clearly

A key performance indicator (KPI) turns broad objectives into concrete, trackable numbers—making it easy to see if you’re moving in the right direction.

2. Improve Decision-Making

Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Definition

By regularly reviewing KPIs, leaders can identify what’s working, what isn’t, and where to focus resources for the best results.

3. Drive Accountability

KPIs set clear expectations for performance, keeping teams aligned and responsible for hitting targets.

Turn Goals into Measurable Results

A key performance indicator (KPI) helps businesses track the health of their strategies and ensure everyone is working toward the same objectives. By pairing KPIs with regular reviews, companies can stay agile, adjust quickly, and maintain a competitive edge.

More Definitions:

  • Analytics Reporting: The process of collecting and presenting data to measure performance.
  • Analytics Dashboard: A visual interface that displays key metrics and insights in real time.
  • Big Data Analytics: Analysing large, complex datasets to uncover patterns and trends.
  • Lead Nurturing: Building relationships with prospects through targeted communication until they’re ready to buy.
  • Growth Metrics Analysis: Evaluating performance indicators that reflect business expansion.
  • Key Metrics: The most important data points used to evaluate business, marketing, or sales performance.

Useful Posts:

How to Set, Monitor, and Act on KPIs: A guide to defining key performance indicators, tracking progress, and using insights to drive business decisions.

Business professional presenting revenue attribution modeling and customer journey insights

Free Download: 100 Sales & Marketing Jargon Terms You Should Know

    You May Also Want to Know the Meaning Of:

    Services & Capabilities

    Sales Funnel Services
    Top of Funnel

    Search Engine Optimization/SEO

    AI Search Optimization/AEO

    Pay Per Click/SEM

    Paid Social

    Organic Social

    Account-Based Marketing/ABM

    Middle of Funnel

    Websites

    App Store Profiles

    Newsletters

    Retargeting/Remarketing

    Bottom of Funnel

    Relational/Contractual/Closer

    Demo/Guided Tour

    Freemium/In-App Upgrade

    Checkout/Digital Purchase

    Capabilities

    Branding

    Print Design

    Video Production

    Animation

    Podcast Production

    App<>CRM Integration

    Sales & Marketing Stack Configuration

    Sales Funnel Professor and The Professor's likeness are trademarks of ETC Software. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.