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How should users handle automatic Key Result (KR) update failure notifications in WorkBoard?

How to Handle Automatic Key Result (KR) Update Failure Notifications in WorkBoard

Automatic Key Result (KR) update failure notifications in WorkBoard are designed to inform users about issues encountered during the automated data pull process. These notifications are not just alerts but actionable prompts to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your OKRs. Below, we explain what these notifications mean, why they are important, and how to address them effectively.

What Do KR Update Failure Notifications Mean?

KR update failure notifications indicate that an automated attempt to update a Key Result (KR) has failed. Common reasons for these failures include:

  • Timeout errors during the polling process

  • Data transformation mismatches from integrated sources such as Excel365, Teams, or Jira

In many cases, the failure is transient, and subsequent polling attempts may succeed. If the KR updates successfully later, the notification reflects only a temporary issue during one polling cycle rather than a permanent problem.

Why Should You Address These Notifications?

It is important not to ignore or block these notifications. They represent real technical failures that could impact the accuracy of your OKRs. Instead of suppressing these alerts, use them as a prompt to verify the status of the affected KR.

Recommended Steps to Address KR Update Failures

When you receive a KR update failure notification, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Affected KR: Locate the KR referenced in the notification email.

  2. Verify the Update Status: Check whether the KR has updated successfully after the failure notice. - If the KR has updated, no further action is needed. - If the KR has not updated and displays an error banner, proceed to the next step.

  3. Troubleshoot the Data Source: Investigate potential issues with the data source, such as: - Credentials or permissions for the integration - Field mappings or data types - Connectivity issues with integrated tools like Excel365

  4. Resolve the Issue: Make the necessary adjustments to the data source or integration settings to ensure the KR can update successfully.

Common Causes of KR Update Failures

KR update failures can occur due to various reasons, including:

  • Integration Errors: Issues with connected tools like Excel365, Teams, or Jira

  • Data Transformation Mismatches: Incompatibilities in data formats or field mappings

  • Timeout Errors: Delays in data retrieval during the polling process

By understanding these common causes, you can proactively address potential issues and minimize disruptions to your OKR updates.


By treating KR update failure notifications as actionable prompts, you can ensure the accuracy and reliability of your OKRs in WorkBoard. Regularly reviewing and troubleshooting these notifications will help maintain seamless integration and data accuracy across your tools.

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