Just as companies refine their strategies to stay competitive, professionals must equip themselves with the right insights and tools to keep pace with a progressing field. In the world of strategy and performance management, staying informed is not just an advantage but a necessity.

Reflecting this commitment to continuous learning and excellence, Performance Magazine, a publication by The KPI Institute (TKI), an established global research organization, has remained a trusted source of industry insights, expert analysis, case studies, and emerging trends. In 2024, it reinforced its role as a reliable resource with the successful release of four special editions. 

Performance Magazine Issue No. 28, 2024 – Employee Performance Edition 

TKI’s first release of the Performance Magazine – Print Edition in 2024 explores the newest advancements in employee performance management, discovering how to harmonize individual objectives with organizational goals and use cutting-edge technologies to streamline relevant processes.

The cover story examines the significant impact of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) on performance evaluation and talent management. DEI, a framework that promotes fair treatment and equal opportunities for all employees, is recognized as essential for improving organizational performance and fostering innovation.

In this edition, we got the opportunity to feature Dr. Malika Viltz-Emerson, a Senior Global Human Resource Leader at Microsoft, where she tackles numerous benefits of involving employees in managing and improving their performance. 

To read the full interview and explore the entire magazine, download the free digital copy from TKI Marketplace. Alternatively, you can purchase the print edition on Amazon.

Performance Magazine Issue No. 29, 2024 – Strategy Management Edition 

This edition uncovers the core elements of strategic success in times of disruption, from managing stakeholder engagement and adopting transformative technologies to fostering strategic foresight. To navigate the evolving work landscape, organizations dive deep into diverse perspectives, scrutinize data, and assess risks, all while considering the impact of culture and communication.

The cover story explores interventions that align with this approach, particularly those that foster an adaptive organizational culture and address resistance to change. Offering in-depth insights into organizational strategy, this edition covers planning, development, and execution, with a focus on best practices, case studies, and data-driven discussions. Readers will gain the tools to integrate diverse viewpoints into strategy implementation, empower employees in change management, and ensure data accuracy for informed decision-making. 

Unlock the strategies for success in uncertain times—download your free digital copy of the magazine from the TKI Marketplace, or purchase the physical copy on Amazon today.

Performance Magazine Issue No. 30, 2024 – Government Edition 

This edition of Performance Magazine offers an in-depth look at how pioneering nations improve government effectiveness through innovative strategies, robust performance management practices, and adaptability to emerging trends and technologies. The publication highlights governments excelling in these areas and examines their successful journeys based on TKI’s Government Services Index 2023.

In the Interviews section, we feature contributions from expert voices representing Saudi Arabia and the USA, with diverse backgrounds in public transportation, education, tourism, religious pilgrimages, and human resources.

In this edition, Dr. Keith Clinkscale returns for a follow-up interview to share the results and advancements of his initiatives in government strategy and performance management, with a special focus on innovation and the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of government operations.

Shape the future and uncover the roadmap to improved governance. Get your hands on this magazine by downloading the digital version for free on the TKI Marketplace, or purchase the printed edition on Amazon.

Performance Magazine Issue No. 31, 2024 – Business Excellence Edition

The latest release of the Performance Magazine – Print Edition delves into practical strategies and insights that drive continuous improvement, helping organizations transition from good to great and ultimately attain excellence. It highlights how top organizations excel in operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and workforce development, providing a thorough understanding of what it takes to thrive in a competitive business environment.

In collaboration with the Global Performance Audit (GPA) Unit, a division established by TKI, this edition explores the effective implementation of performance management systems through maturity assessments. It features the GPA Unit’s maturity model frameworks, valuable insights, client success stories, and expert interviews. 

The cover story, “Closing the Strategy-Execution Gap: A Fundamental Step for Business Excellence” by Cristina Mihăiloaie, emphasizes the significance of aligning processes, principles, and people to address key challenges in strategy execution. This alignment is portrayed as a crucial element for attaining sustained success.

Dive more into the latest trends, strategies, and tools for enhancing performance management systems! Download the Performance Magazine Issue No. 31, 2024 – Business Excellence Edition on TKI Marketplace, or grab a physical copy via Amazon.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, offering businesses new opportunities for growth and efficiency. According to PwC, AI is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with 45% of economic gains driven by AI-powered product enhancements. These improvements will boost consumer demand by offering more diverse, personalized, appealing, and affordable products​.

As AI technologies advance, organizations are increasingly looking for ways to harness their potential and integrate them into their operations. However, implementing AI is not just about adopting new technologies—it is about enabling the organization to adapt and thrive in an AI-driven world. 

AI enablement refers to the processes, strategies, and frameworks that facilitate the successful integration of AI, ensuring that organizations can align technology with their goals, resources, and talent. By empowering teams with the right skills and mindset, AI enablement helps businesses navigate challenges, maximize value, and unlock the full potential of AI.

The KPI Institute’s new Certified AI Enablement Professional course is designed to help professionals develop the necessary skills to understand and effectively leverage AI within their organizations.

Course overview

The Certified AI Enablement Professional course is developed by maentae, a progressive learning solution provider, and based on the AI Enablement Framework created by the Functional Areas Enablement Institute (FAEI) in collaboration with The KPI Institute. This cutting-edge program aims to empower business leaders and professionals with the expertise needed to effectively implement AI technologies in different areas of their work environments.

The course provides a structured approach to evaluating AI readiness, formulating strategies, implementing solutions, and managing performance across diverse industries. Participants will be able to start building proficiency in key areas such as natural language processing (NLP), prompt engineering, AI readiness evaluations, strategic AI road mapping, and AI solution deployment. Additionally, they will learn how to sustain and enhance AI systems to ensure ongoing performance and alignment with changing business demands. The course explores these crucial areas:

• Building a strong foundation in AI, focused on NLP, to enable effective selection and implementation of technologies
• Identifying integration opportunities, evaluating organizational readiness, and addressing skill gaps, as well as creating actionable strategies with an emphasis on governance and compliance
• Utilizing advanced analytics to assess and measure AI performance effectively.
• Fostering an organizational culture that supports and accelerates AI adoption.

Benefits and importance

By becoming a Certified AI Enablement Professional, participants will acquire the following advantages:

• Gaining an in-depth understanding of the value and functionality of the AI Enablement

• Designing and implementing AI Enablement Architecture using a standardized approach

• Addressing and overcoming challenges in strategy execution through the application of AI Enablement

• Enhancing strategy communication by leveraging the AI Enablement

• Earning 40 CPD credits to include in your professional development records for your professional body, institute, regulator, or employer

Course structure and methodology

The course covers a three-stage learning process: 

1. Pre-course stage: This stage facilitates a smooth introduction to the training program. Participants will evaluate their existing skills, interact with fellow participants through an engaging forum, and establish the foundation for a collaborative learning experience.
2. Core-course stage: During the three days of in-person training, the course will emphasize experiential learning and interactivity. Participants will apply concepts through practical exercises, analyze case studies to find solutions, use templates to create performance measurement tools, and share best practices while building a network of KPI professionals.
3. After-course stage: Here, participants must engage in forum discussions, initiate and contribute to conversations, create an action plan for post-course initiatives, and submit a short PowerPoint presentation summarizing key learnings. They will also complete additional reading to expand their knowledge and reflect on their learning journey through a final learning journal.

Agenda

The course consists of 10 agendas that progress from basic concepts to advanced topics, gradually transitioning from theory to practical application.

1. NLP AI Fundamentals
2. Prompt Engineering Fundamentals
3. Artificial Intelligence Readiness Assessment
4. Artificial Intelligence Strategy and Roadmap 
5. AI Integration Preparation
6. AI Introduction Deployment
7. AI Performance and Metrics Analytics
8. AI Integration Maintenance and Improvement
9. AI Integration Training and Capacity Building
10. AI-Ready Culture for Business Integration

Flexible learning options

The Certified AI Enablement Professional course is available for both in-person training and live online webinars, offered in English and Arabic to suit diverse schedules and language preferences.

Certification and recognition

Upon completion, participants will receive the following certificates:

• Certificate of Attendance: after participating in the 3 days of on-site training course
• Certificate of Completion: after completing pre-course activities and passing the Certification Exam
• Certified AI Enablement Professional diploma: after fulfilling all 3 stages of the learning experience
• CPD Certificate of Attendance: once the participant has successfully obtained the Professional status

Unlock the potential of AI and take your organization to the next level. Enroll now in the Certified AI Enablement Professional course and gain the skills to drive AI transformation and innovation within your business! Visit the following links for more information:

Live-Online: https://kpiinstitute.org/live-certified-ai-enablement-professional-emea/
Face-to-face: http://kpiinstitute.org/certified-ai-enablement-professional-dubai/  

Looking ahead to 2025, The KPI Institute (TKI) is set to deliver its top-notch training programs to professionals and organizations around the globe. These courses offer the latest insights, practical tools, and actionable solutions to excel in strategy and performance management, as well as address modern business challenges in areas like artificial intelligence, data analysis, customer service, and more.

For over 20 years, TKI has been a trailblazer in performance management research and education, with over 400 publications to its name. Its 2025 course lineup includes Live-Online Global Certifications and face-to-face training in Dubai, Southeast Asia, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa, and the United Kingdom. TKI enhances learning with resources like toolkits, templates, case studies, and real-world examples from successful global enterprises.

This year’s lineup features coveted certifications such as Certified KPI Professional and Practitioner and Certified Strategy and Business Planning Professional. Participants in the KPI Professional course will learn to navigate and resolve performance measurement challenges. On the other hand, the Certified Strategy and Business Planning Professional program provides knowledge and tools to improve an organization’s business planning process and long-term performance, leading to smarter and faster strategic decisions.

Contemporary courses, including the AI Enablement Professional, OKR Professional, and Certified Data Analysis Professional, are becoming popular among those aiming to meet modern corporate needs. The AI Enablement program, with a focus on natural language processing (NLP) tools and practical applications, empowers individuals to leverage AI to streamline tasks, save time, and advance work quality. The OKR Professional course teaches participants how to set and work with OKRs, while the Certified Data Analysis course enables them to effectively collect, analyze, and interpret data.

TKI is also offering customized live online group training programs that present a perfect blend of research, best-practice, and best-in-class instructional design paired with next-generation online technology. These learning programs are accessible anytime and anywhere and ready to support organizations of all sizes, providing their employees with development opportunities in an efficient, impactful, and cost-effective way.

Built on rigorous research, industry standards, and expert leadership, TKI has trained over 33,936 individuals across 60 countries as of November 2024. Whether you’re advancing your career, exploring new paths, or keeping your organization competitive, TKI has the right opportunities for you. Discover the full training schedule for live online and face-to-face classes in 2025 and see for yourself:

Live Online Calendar:

https://kpiinstitute.org/Live_Online_Training_Courses_2025_Calendar_a.pdf

Face to face Calendar Dubai:

https://kpiinstitute.org/Dubai_Training_Courses_2025_Calendar.pdf

Face to face Calendar KSA:

https://kpiinstitute.org/KSA_Training_Courses_2025_Calendar.pdf

Face to face Calendar SEA:

https://kpiinstitute.org/SEA_Training_Courses_2025_Calendar.pdf

Face to face Calendar MENA (Dubai + KSA):

https://kpiinstitute.org/MENA_Training_Courses_2025_Calendar.pdf

Face to face Calendar UK  ( London ):

https://kpiinstitute.org/UK_Training_Courses_2025_Calendar.pdf

As we bid farewell to an eventful 2024, The KPI Institute (TKI) proudly reflects on a year marked by remarkable accomplishments and milestones. From groundbreaking initiatives to impactful collaborations, 2024 has been a testament to TKI’s dedication to providing professionals worldwide with the expertise and capabilities needed to thrive in today’s ever-changing business environment. Let’s take a moment to look back at some of the achievements that shaped 2024, and celebrate the hard work and dedication of TKI’s teams.

Celebrating two decades in business and a thriving Community

TKI celebrated its 20 years of innovation, growth, and impact. Founded in 2004 by Dr. Aurel Brudan, TKI has evolved from a pioneer in strategy and performance management into a diversified ecosystem driving progress across business and society. Highlights include creating the world’s largest KPI database and launching enterprises that offer solutions across various sectors, setting benchmarks in knowledge and innovation.

Building on this legacy, TKI has achieved another remarkable milestone by fostering an online community of over 70,000 social media followers and more than 60,000 LinkedIn group members. This growth reflects a strong commitment to enhancing networking connections, which are crucial for driving knowledge-sharing and collaboration.

Empowering growth through consulting, training, and partnerships

In addition to its continued success in community engagement, The KPI Institute (TKI) has made significant strides in consulting, training, and research in 2024, forging numerous partnerships with esteemed organizations worldwide. This year alone, TKI trained 6,787 professionals through its face-to-face training sessions and live-online webinars, bringing its total global reach to 27,382 individuals across 60 countries and further solidifying its role as a leader in empowering professionals and driving organizational growth.

As a trusted advisor to organizations worldwide, TKI made valuable collaborations through its consulting and training services, helping clients integrate advanced performance management strategies and solutions that drive sustainable growth.  

In early 2024, the Global Performance Audit (GPA) Unit, the division at The KPI Institute (TKI) that specializes in strategy and performance management audits, delivered significant milestones through comprehensive maturity assessments for various organizations in Saudi Arabia. One such evaluation was conducted for the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA), which achieved a maturity level of “IV – Integrated” on a five-level scale. This distinction highlighted ZATCA’s advanced capabilities in strategic planning, corporate reporting, and performance improvement. [Read the full story HERE]

During the same period, the GPA Unit completed a detailed performance management system maturity assessment for the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). This review analyzed five critical organizational capabilities: strategic planning, performance measurement, performance improvement, performance culture, and employee performance management, marking SCFHS’s ongoing commitment to excellence. [Checkout the full article HERE]

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) also partnered with TKI, successfully attaining the highest level of accreditation, “Level V: Optimized,” after a rigorous evaluation of its strategy and performance management system. This achievement exemplified PIF’s exemplary operational sophistication and alignment with best practices. [Read the full article HERE]

Similarly, the General Secretariat of Zakat, Tax, and Customs Committees (GSTC) was awarded Maturity Level “IV – Integrated” following a thorough assessment by the GPA Unit. This recognition underscored GSTC’s remarkable progress in strategic planning and performance measurement practices. [Checkout the full story HERE]

Through these tailored services—including strategic planning, KPI development, and performance measurement—TKI continues to empower organizations to navigate the complexities of today’s dynamic business environment, driving impactful results and fostering sustained growth.

Research and publications

Furthermore, TKI’s research efforts continued to set industry standards in 2024. The institute published groundbreaking reports offering actionable insights into critical business areas such as employee performance, strategy execution, and business excellence. In addition to regular series like KPI of the Month, Top 10 KPIs, and KPIs for Functional Areas, the Top 25 KPIs series made a comeback in 2024.

This comprehensive collection highlighted the 25 most widely used Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in various functional areas. The selections were based on viewership data from smartKPIs.com, covering the period from January 2023 to April 2024. This edition reflects current trends and preferences in performance measurement, solidifying TKI’s role as a leader in the field. 

Another notable achievement was the release of the Government Services Index (GSI) 2024 report and the State of Strategy Management Practice – 2024 MENA Region report. The GSI serves as a comprehensive benchmark for assessing and measuring government performance, while the State of Report provides insights from leaders of top organizations alongside expert guidance on developing more efficient organizational systems for strategic planning, performance measurement, and execution. 

Based on the findings of the State of Strategy Management Practice 2024 report, TKI hosted an engaging webinar that brought together industry professionals to discuss the key takeaways and actionable recommendations. This event not only enhanced the report’s impact but also fostered meaningful dialogue on advancing strategy management practices. [Read the webinar highlights HERE or watch the full webinar on YouTube]

In 2024, the Publications team also made significant strides in advancing TKI’s mission. Aside from providing editing support to other departments and entities within TKI’s ecosystem, and producing regular content and monthly newsletters on two websites: kpiinstitute.org and performancemagazine.org, the team’s significant achievement was the release of four print editions of Performance Magazine in 2024, which covered themes of employee performance, strategy management, government performance, and business excellence. These editions featured insights from industry experts, practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable recommendations, offering professionals a comprehensive understanding of performance management and excellence across diverse sectors.

Additionally, the team began revamping the Performance Magazine website. This improved platform promises a seamless, user-friendly experience, enriched with innovative features, the latest trends, and fresh perspectives on performance excellence. The new website will be launched soon!

In 2025, The KPI Institute is looking forward to the exciting opportunities ahead. There’s so much more in store as TKI continues its journey of growth, excellence, and innovation. Stay tuned for what’s coming next, and do not forget to follow TKI on LinkedIn for updates!

As 2024 comes to an end, we encouraged The KPI Institute (TKI) employees to reflect on the lessons they have learned and the goals they aim to achieve in 2025, celebrating progress and preparing for a brighter year ahead.

In this article, we feature some of the responses from our dedicated employees as they share their reflections on the year that was and the goals they are setting for the future. May their insights serve as a reminder that, no matter the obstacles, collective strength, creativity, and determination will shape a better tomorrow.

Daniela Vuta

Head of Publications

1. What is one skill you developed or improved this year that you’ll carry into the new year?

I consider communication to be one of the most essential skills for a leader. No matter how much one studies this field, there is always room for improvement and refinement. This year, I have concentrated on enhancing my leadership communication skills by cultivating balanced empathy, practicing active listening, demonstrating assertiveness, and effectively resolving conflicts.

2. What strategies or habits helped you overcome challenges this year?

The year 2024 brought its fair share of challenges, which our team successfully overcame. As a leader, I embraced full responsibility and commitment, particularly when external factors disrupted the team. Key elements in supporting our success included effective planning, meticulous attention to detail, and maintaining a comprehensive vision of our operations. 

3. What’s your professional new year’s resolution for 2025?

My aspiration for 2025 is to fully refine and elevate my leadership abilities, with these efforts clearly reflected in the accomplishments of the team I lead. This includes achieving strategic objectives, successfully executing planned initiatives, and, most importantly, making a meaningful and active contribution to the professional growth of each team member.

Cristina – Elena Craciun

Strategy and Performance Specialist

1. What is one skill you developed or improved this year that you’ll carry into the new year?

It’s been a year of constant changes, challenges, and joyful successes. Returning from maternity leave and adding work changes has proven this year to be the year of adaptability.  Today, I am proud to say I am aware of, and I not only accept but cherish changes.

2. What strategies or habits helped you overcome challenges this year?

My best strategy, which I’ve used for years, is not getting stuck. I accept things as they come and move on embracing the future. A good habit I’ve tried to nurture is seeing the good in everything before speaking my mind. Dull, I know, but it is a good exercise connecting mind and heart for a purpose that benefits everyone.

3. What’s your professional new year’s resolution for 2025?

Well, I do wish for a better version of me. Until now, I have wanted to develop knowledge in at least two new subjects and learn new skills in already-known areas. Last, but not least, I aim to improve my online communication skills.

Len Cristobal

Chief Editor

1. What is one skill you developed or improved this year that you’ll carry into the new year?

I’ve become more familiar with the basics of data visualization and analysis through the Certified Data Visualization Professional and Certified Data Analysis courses of The KPI Institute. I hope to further apply what I’ve learned, along with insights from external sources, in content development for Performance Magazine and TKI’s platforms and areas where data-driven decisions can help improve performance, streamline processes, and support strategic planning.

2. What strategies or habits helped you overcome challenges this year?

Being more flexible and maintaining open communication. Flexibility helped me adapt quickly when things changed. Open communication kept me aligned with my team and others. By discussing challenges and working together on solutions, we stayed focused and kept moving forward.

3. What’s your professional new year’s resolution for 2025?

Nothing specific comes to mind yet, but for now, approach your work with purpose and positivity, while maintaining openness and discipline.

Frichette Ann Talania

Junior Business Research Analyst

1. What is one skill you developed or improved this year that you’ll carry into the new year?

This year, I focused on improving my research skills, particularly in the areas of employee performance, evaluation, and benchmarking—fields that were initially unfamiliar to me.

2. What strategies or habits helped you overcome challenges this year?

I faced the challenge of adapting to new research fields, areas I wasn’t initially familiar with. I made time to learn continuously, whether by reading whatever I could find online or attending meetings with my senior or manager. I also leaned on my senior and other teammates for feedback and collaboration, which gave me new perspectives and helped me improve quickly. Lastly, breaking tasks into smaller, manageable pieces kept me from feeling overwhelmed.

3. What’s your professional new year’s resolution for 2025?

My professional new year’s resolution for 2025 is definitely to be able to work on tasks independently, without needing help from seniors. I don’t aim for a promotion anytime soon, but I want to ensure I fulfill my duties and exceed the expectations of my manager and seniors. Additionally, being able to contribute to other tasks and teams would be great.

Maryan Hamadeh 

Jr Training Specialist 

1. What is one skill you developed or improved this year that you’ll carry into the new year?

Besides taking the Certified Training Professional course this year, I have made a great improvement in prioritizing and organizing tasks, working under pressure, and communicating with colleagues. Moreover, my shift to the new position made me more involved in the Instructional Design work instead of merely translating course materials.

2. What strategies or habits helped you overcome challenges this year?

Taking notes, making to-do lists, and using Asana more often has helped me a lot. Furthermore, when working on urgent tasks that have a short deadline, I try to find solutions to organize and submit the tasks on time instead of stressing about the situation.

3. What’s your professional new year’s resolution for 2025?

I currently don’t have resolutions for 2025 as this year has been stressful for me, but I do wish that I keep working at the same pace and try to grow in the company.

Uncertainty may continue to be a part of our journey as we step into 2025. But one thing remains clear: TKI is here to assist and support you through whatever challenges lie ahead. Together, let’s embrace change, navigate challenges, and continue to move forward with a shared commitment to excellence and growth. 

Stay connected with TKI for updates, insights, and support throughout the year by following The KPI Institute on LinkedIn. Join the conversation, engage with our community, and be part of the journey!