Scrum Alliance Agile OKRs Micro-credential Training in New Zealand

This course provides a focused introduction to the application of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) in agile environments. Participants will explore how OKRs can align teams, drive transparency, and enable measurable outcomes that support iterative delivery. Designed as a concise, high-impact programme, it guides learners through crafting, cascading, and sustaining OKRs across teams and functions. Through scenario-based discussion and real-world templates, learners will be equipped to embed OKRs into Scrum practices and broader agile frameworks. This course is delivered live and awards a digital micro credential recognised by Scrum Alliance.

Key focus areas include the OKR structure, goal-setting techniques, alignment methods, integration with Scrum ceremonies, and avoidance of common pitfalls in agile teams.

There are no formal prerequisites are required for this course. Familiarity with Scrum or other agile methodologies is recommended to maximise understanding.

Target audience

This course is designed for:

• Scrum masters, product owners, agile coaches, and delivery professionals
• Team leads, managers, and decision-makers looking to enhance outcome alignment
• Professionals working in agile or cross-functional teams seeking practical goal-setting frameworks
• Organisations aiming to scale alignment and accountability across agile teams

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Describe the structure and purpose of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs)
• Compare OKRs with traditional goal-setting models such as SMART goals
• Write ambitious and measurable OKRs that align with organisational strategy
• Cascade OKRs across teams while maintaining autonomy and accountability
• Integrate OKRs into Scrum practices such as sprint planning, retrospectives, and reviews
• Recognise and avoid common antipatterns in agile OKR implementation
• Monitor OKR progress using agile rhythms and adapt goals based on team learning

Introduction to OKRs in agile

• why OKRs matter in iterative and customer-focused delivery
• key differences between OKRs and SMART goals

Goal-setting fundamentals

• components of effective OKRs: objectives vs key results
• writing clear, aspirational, and measurable OKRs

Strategic alignment and cascading

• aligning team OKRs with organisational vision
• horizontal and vertical alignment techniques
• enabling autonomy through goal frameworks

Integrating OKRs into Scrum

• embedding OKRs into sprints and product backlogs
• linking key results to team deliverables and metrics
• supporting transparency through daily and sprint events

Avoiding antipatterns

• common mistakes and challenges with OKRs in agile teams
• resolving misalignment, overload, and lack of measurability

Monitoring and adaptation

• check-ins, cadence reviews, and OKR retrospectives
• adapting OKRs in response to change and new learning

Scaling and sustaining OKRs

• strategies for OKRs at team, programme, and portfolio levels
• balancing stretch goals with continuous improvement
• embedding OKRs into organisational culture

Exams and assessments

There are no formal exams for this micro-credential. Participants will demonstrate understanding through guided exercises, group discussions, and the development of practical OKR examples

Hands-on learning

• Live, instructor-led sessions with Scrum Alliance-accredited trainers
• Collaborative workshops and scenario-based exercises
• Real-world examples of OKR frameworks applied in agile teams
• Templates and practical guides for immediate application