People · business glossary
What is KRA (Key Result Area)?
By Shivam Bhandari · Reviewed 31 October 2026 · How we write
definition
The specific responsibilities and activities a role is expected to own, which together produce its KPIs.
KRA (key result area) explained
A KRA is a broad area of responsibility where an employee is expected to deliver results; KPIs measure performance within it.
example
KRA: customer service. KPIs: response time under 2 hours and satisfaction above 4.5.
why it matters
KRAs clarify what each role is responsible for, reducing confusion and overlap.
common mistake
Writing KRAs as task lists instead of outcomes.
Frequently asked questions
What is KRA (key result area)?
The specific responsibilities and activities a role is expected to own, which together produce its KPIs. A KRA is a broad area of responsibility where an employee is expected to deliver results; KPIs measure performance within it.
Why does KRA (key result area) matter?
KRAs clarify what each role is responsible for, reducing confusion and overlap.
What is a common mistake with KRA (key result area)?
Writing KRAs as task lists instead of outcomes.
Related terms
KPI (key performance indicator)
A specific, tracked number used to judge whether a role, team, or business is performing as expected.
Performance review
A structured, periodic conversation assessing how an employee has performed against expectations.
Delegation
Handing off a task or decision to someone else, ranging from simple task assignment to full ownership of the outcome.