Lessen over leiderschap in het veld: drie dagen meelopen bij Defensie
Drie dagen met Defensie laten zien wat leiderschap is: niet roepen, maar dragen. Niet alleen gaan, maar samen verder komen.
Do you want an OGSM plan that really works? With this practical OGSM example, we show how to move from long-term goals to concrete actions. No bulky reports or endless spreadsheets, but a clear one-page plan that inspires your team and provides direction.














What is an OGSM?
OGSM stands for Objective, Goals, Strategies, and Measures. It is a proven framework to make your strategy concrete and measurable.
With an OGSM plan you know:
• What you want to achieve (Objective)
• Which goals make it measurable (Goals)
• How you will realize success (Strategies)
• How you track progress and execution (Measures)
In this example, we use the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to make an OGSM concrete.
Step 1: Objective – your long-term goal
The Objective is your overarching goal and provides direction to all your activities.
Your goal can be short term (1 to 2 years) or longer term (3 to 5 years). In general, we advise formulating the Objective for the longer term.
OGSM example Objective WWF:
“Global conservation of nature and biodiversity by working with local partners and governments to fight for nature gains.”
A strong Objective is:
• Clear and concrete
• Inspiring for everyone involved in the plan
• Guiding for your strategies and actions
Step 2: Goals – concrete and measurable
Goals translate your Objective into concrete, measurable results. Use SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
OGSM example Goals WWF:
• Reduce the list of endangered species by at least 50%
• Actively engage 1,000 partner organizations and 3,300 volunteers in conservation and education programs
Tip: be ambitious, but keep it achievable and measurable.
Step 3: Strategies – how will you achieve your goals?
Strategies describe the route to your goals. Choose 3–5 core strategies for focus and impact.
OGSM example Strategies WWF:
• Strengthen partnerships
• Raise financial resources
• Increase awareness through education
Example elaboration of the education strategy:
“Raise awareness of the importance of nature for people and animals through educational campaigns and up-to-date teaching materials.”
Strategy is about choosing from many good options: focus on what has the most impact.
Step 4: Measures – monitor and steer
Measures show whether your strategy is on track and which actions are needed.
Dashboard Measures (KPIs):
• ≥ 300 media mentions
• 30% increase in social media engagement
Action plan:
• Develop a public campaign strategy
• Increase engagement among younger audiences through collaboration with influencers
Make sure every action has an owner and a deadline. This way you can effectively steer execution.
Start today with this OGSM example
Would you like the full version of this fictional OGSM example for WWF? Contact us and we’ll send it to you.
With this OGSM example you’ll know exactly how to create a clear strategy plan, formulate measurable goals, and bring focus to your organization.
Free OGSM Template
Download our free OGSM template and immediately create your own strategy plan.
Want to learn more about OGSM and strategic planning?
Check out our short videos and practical examples to implement OGSM successfully in your organization.
We have developed various OGSM templates for you for various formats that you can easily download here.
You fill out an OGSM by going through four parts step by step:
1. Objective — formulate a clear long-term ambition.
2. Goals — make that ambition measurable with 3 to 5 concrete goals.
3. Strategies — determine the most important choices to achieve those goals.
4. Measures — add KPIs and actions to measure and execute progress.
Preferably use a template and involve your team for support and ownership.
An OGSM cycle usually lasts 12 months and follows the rhythm of the annual plan. The OGSM itself is set up at the start, with quarterly reviews to measure progress, adjust actions and learn. Some organizations work with a biannual update, but the basis often remains valid for one year and is cyclically tightened.
OGSM and OKR are both methods for translating goals into results, but differ in design and application. OGSM stands for Objective, Goals, Strategies and Measures and provides a complete strategic plan on one page including direction, choices and actions. OKR stands for Objectives and Key Results and focuses primarily on ambitious, measurable quarterly results, without a fixed strategy or action plan. OGSM is suitable for organizations that want to connect direction and implementation. OKR is ideal for short cycle focus and alignment.
Yes, the OGSM model is suitable for companies of all sizes and industries. Whether you're a startup or a multinational, OGSM helps you clarify goals, implement strategies, and achieve results.
The OGSM model is popular because it:
• Provides structure: It offers a clear and easy-to-understand framework.
• Enhances effectiveness: It emphasises measurable results.
• Boosts engagement: Teams collaborate to achieve shared goals.
OGSM helps organisations translate their vision into concrete actions, driving improved performance and teamwork.