Objective Key Results in Government Utilities: A Framework for Enhanced Performance and Public Trust

This article explores the application and implementation of Objective Key Results (OKRs) within the unique context of government utilities. Facing increasing pressure for efficiency, accountability, and adaptability, traditional goal-setting methods in the public sector often fall short. OKRs, a framework emphasizing clear objectives and measurable key results, offer a potential solution. This paper reviews the theoretical foundations of OKRs, examines existing literature on their use in the public sector, and analyzes their specific applicability to government utilities, considering the sector’s distinct challenges such as public service mandates, regulatory environments, and bureaucratic structures. A detailed case study of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is presented to illustrate practical application, outcomes, and lessons learned. The analysis synthesizes findings to discuss the implications of OKR adoption for performance improvement, enhanced collaboration, and increased efficiency in government utilities. The article concludes with recommendations for utilities considering OKR implementation and identifies areas for future research.