# Define metrics

Choose the unit, direction and cadence before setting a target.

In Data, open **Metric → 1 - Define KPI Metric (intake)**. Each step is a filtered queue. As required fields are completed, the record can leave the current view; continue in the next step rather than creating another metric.

## Define the measurement

Open **Step 1 - Define the metric** and use **Add record** for a new metric. Fill **Name**, **Unit Text** and **Direction**. Add **Formula** and **Data Source** when applicable. The definition should let two people measure the same thing in the same way.

[![Metric intake showing the definition step and its fields.](/systems/kpis-okrs/screens/metric-definition.png)](/systems/kpis-okrs/screens/metric-definition.png)

*Name, unit and direction define the measurement. The empty queue is a real captured state, not a missing screenshot.*

## Set rhythm and policy

Open **Step 2 - Set rhythm and policy**. Select **Cadence**, fill **Version**, and choose the **Evaluation Policy** appropriate to the measurement. Review **Cadence (Lifecycle Status)** and **Intake Check**. Lookup and formula fields are outputs; correct their source fields.

[![Metric rhythm and policy step with a fictitious daily reading.](/systems/kpis-okrs/screens/metric-policy.png)](/systems/kpis-okrs/screens/metric-policy.png)

*The example remains in this step while its required setup is incomplete. A policy label alone does not prove that its evaluation calculation is running.*

## Continue to the target

When the required settings are complete and Intake Check is clear, [set the target](/systems/kpis-okrs/set-targets). The target supplies the expected value, subject and period; those do not belong in the metric's name.