Dear Radha ,
This my first mail in this forum and you have raised a question which has been very close to me . The very importance of learning is to first underatnd fundamentals and than through the journey of experience gain the skills to customize the fundamental concepts as per objectives :
KPA : Key Performance Areas are set of activity for which you are responsible or you can say your general responsibilities which covers almost all areas of your activity and they do not form a part of measurement for performance . They are mostly fixed
KRA : Key Result Areas on other hand are set activity derived out of short term objectives . It may change from quarter / half yearly or yearly . KRA should be focussed and it should follow SMART (Specific/ Measurable/ Achievable / Relevant & timer bound)
The major difference between KPA and KRA is that KPA can be shared but KRA cannot be shared . In otherwords Responsibilities can be shared while accountabilities cannot be shared .
Process of identifying KRA :
In our organization KRA is a part of PMS (Performance Management System ) which also linked to Appraisal Process :
1) It starts with a KRA format which includes KRA Indetified / Objective / Completion date /Review Date / Reviewed by / Remarks
2) The KRA is forwarded to the concerned HOD in the month of March every year once the business plan is over and KRA is derived in accordance with the business objectives for different Positions
3) The HR has to facilitate his/her support along with concerned HOD to identify the KRAs and duly take signature from the concerned HOD and the Subordinate for a reason that both have agreed upon.
4) Once the KRA is derived a copy through mail is being forwarded to the concerned and once the date of review comes , HR has to intervene to understand the outcome of the performance review to put his / her comments on the Appraisal as per performnce reviewed on the KRAs
5) All the KRA is integrated to Appraisal form .
KRA is one of the most important tool in the total process of Performance Management System which facilitate a perfect communication platform to review and measure performance level .
I am attaching KRA Format and the Appraisal Form which is very simple and customized as per our Organization needs and objectives for your better understanding .
Rgds
Atul