KPI Depot takes you from KPI intelligence to finished deliverable. Consultants, strategy teams, FP&A leaders, and analytics teams use it to answer the two hardest questions in performance management, what to measure and what the target should be, and then to produce the scorecard itself.

The difference is intelligence, not just data. Anyone can list metrics. Every KPI in KPI Depot carries 13 practical attributes, from formula and measurement approach to diagnostic questions, risk warnings, and Balanced Scorecard perspective, across 15 corporate functions and 153 industries. And every target you set is grounded in our database of 34,304 source-attributed benchmarks, each detailing metric value, company size, time period, industry, geography, sample size, and source. Benchmark data at this scale is otherwise the domain of research services costing thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.

When your metrics are selected, KPI Depot finishes the job: export an interactive Strategy Map, a Balanced Scorecard with formulas and tracking columns, or a CSV KPI pack, and go from research to working deliverable in hours instead of weeks.

Formerly the Flevy KPI Library, KPI Depot is trusted by teams at organizations including Accenture, EY, IBM, PepsiCo, Samsung, and Vodafone.

Got a question? Email us at [email protected].

FAQs about Research & Development Spend

What is considered a healthy R&D Spend ratio?

A healthy R&D Spend ratio varies by industry, but generally, 10% to 15% of revenue is considered balanced. Companies in high-tech sectors may invest even more, often exceeding 15% to stay competitive.

How can R&D Spend impact overall business performance?

R&D Spend can significantly affect business performance by driving innovation and product development. Increased investment often leads to improved market positioning and higher revenue growth over time.

What are the risks of underinvesting in R&D?

Underinvesting in R&D can result in stagnation and loss of competitive edge. Companies may miss out on emerging trends and technologies, leading to decreased market share and profitability.

How can companies measure the effectiveness of their R&D Spend?

Effectiveness can be measured through various KPIs, such as ROI, time to market, and the number of successful product launches. Regular benchmarking against industry standards also provides valuable insights.

Is R&D Spend a lagging or leading indicator?

R&D Spend is generally considered a leading indicator, as it reflects a company's commitment to future growth and innovation. It often predicts long-term performance and market competitiveness.

How often should R&D Spend be reviewed?

R&D Spend should be reviewed quarterly to ensure alignment with strategic goals. Regular assessments help identify areas for improvement and ensure resources are allocated effectively.



Each KPI in our knowledge base includes 13 attributes.

KPI Definition

A clear explanation of what the KPI measures

Potential Business Insights

The typical business insights we expect to gain through the tracking of this KPI

Measurement Approach

An outline of the approach or process followed to measure this KPI

Standard Formula

The standard formula organizations use to calculate this KPI

Trend Analysis

Insights into how the KPI tends to evolve over time and what trends could indicate positive or negative performance shifts

Diagnostic Questions

Questions to ask to better understand your current position is for the KPI and how it can improve

Actionable Tips

Practical, actionable tips for improving the KPI, which might involve operational changes, strategic shifts, or tactical actions

Visualization Suggestions

Recommended charts or graphs that best represent the trends and patterns around the KPI for more effective reporting and decision-making

Risk Warnings

Potential risks or warnings signs that could indicate underlying issues that require immediate attention

Tools & Technologies

Suggested tools, technologies, and software that can help in tracking and analyzing the KPI more effectively

Integration Points

How the KPI can be integrated with other business systems and processes for holistic strategic performance management

Change Impact

Explanation of how changes in the KPI can impact other KPIs and what kind of changes can be expected

BSC Perspective

NEW Mapping to a Balanced Scorecard perspective (financial, customer, internal process, learning & growth)


Compare Our Plans


Explore KPI Depot by Function & Industry



Connect our complete KPI and benchmark database to your AI