When different teams inside a company work on their own priorities, it can feel like everyone is moving in different directions. Projects take longer, progress slows down, and results are harder to measure.

The solution is alignment. Alignment means making sure that every team understands the main goal of the organization and knows how their work contributes to it. One of the best ways to achieve alignment is through OKRs (Objectives and Key Results).

OKRs are a simple framework that help teams set clear objectives and measure progress. Here is how you can use them to align multiple teams on one shared goal.

1. Start at the Top

Alignment begins with leadership. The executive team should set clear objectives with outcome-focused results, not just task-focused. For example, instead of saying “Launch a new product,” a better objective would be “Increase customer satisfaction with faster product delivery.” Once leadership defines the main direction, departments can follow.

2. Avoid Vague Language

Goals like “Delight customers” or “Build great products” sound nice but are too vague. If a goal is unclear, teams will interpret it differently and work in separate directions. Always use specific and measurable language. For example, “Improve customer satisfaction score by 15%” is clear and trackable.

3. Get Everyone in the Room

If the goal involves multiple teams, bring them together from the start. Discussing the leadership objective with all teams ensures everyone understands the big picture. This also gives space for teams to share input and clarify expectations.

4. Set Team-Specific OKRs

Once the shared goal is clear, each team should define how they will support it. For example, the marketing team might set an OKR to increase qualified leads, while the sales team might set one to shorten response time. Each team’s OKRs connect back to the main organizational goal.

5. Tie It All Together

After teams create their OKRs, review them side by side. This step prevents overlaps, uncovers gaps, and ensures everyone is moving in the same direction. It also helps teams see how their work supports other departments.

6. Make Alignment Visible

Alignment only works if progress is visible. Use a tracking platform or simple shared dashboard where teams can update their progress. This transparency builds accountability and keeps everyone informed throughout the quarter.

Why Alignment Matters

When teams are aligned, the whole company moves faster. There is less confusion, fewer conflicts, and stronger results. Instead of running in different directions, everyone works together toward one goal.

At Wave Nine, we believe alignment is the foundation of growth. With the right OKRs, your teams can achieve clarity, focus, and measurable success.

Ready to Align Your Teams?

If your teams are working hard but struggling to move in the same direction, we can help. At Wave Nine, we guide organizations in building OKRs that create alignment, boost accountability, and accelerate results.

[Contact us today] to start aligning your teams with OKRs that drive real progress.

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