KPI stands for "Key Performance Indicator." It is a measurable value that demonstrates how effectively an organization, team, or individual is achieving key business objectives. Organizations use KPIs at multiple levels to evaluate their success at reaching targets. High-level KPIs may focus on the overall performance of the organization, while low-level KPIs may focus on departmental or individual processes.
The term "Key Performance Indicator" is a compound phrase where "Key" refers to something of crucial importance, "Performance" relates to how well a task is executed, and "Indicator" signifies a sign or signal that shows the state or level of something. The term became popular in business management in the 1990s.