Total Resolution Time KPI

What is Total Resolution Time?
The total time taken from the beginning of a customer inquiry to the resolution of the issue across all channels.

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Total Resolution Time (TRT) is a crucial KPI that measures the efficiency of issue resolution processes, impacting customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

A shorter TRT indicates effective problem-solving capabilities, enhancing customer loyalty and trust.

Conversely, prolonged resolution times can lead to frustration, negatively affecting retention rates and overall financial health.

Organizations that prioritize reducing TRT often see improvements in their reporting dashboard metrics, leading to better data-driven decision-making.

This KPI serves as a leading indicator of operational effectiveness, allowing businesses to align resources strategically for improved outcomes.

Total Resolution Time Interpretation

High Total Resolution Time suggests inefficiencies in addressing customer issues, which can lead to dissatisfaction and churn. Low values indicate a streamlined process, where problems are resolved quickly, enhancing customer experience. Ideal targets vary by industry, but organizations should aim for continuous improvement.

  • <24 hours – Excellent performance; indicates strong operational efficiency
  • 24–48 hours – Acceptable; monitor for potential delays
  • >48 hours – Concern; requires immediate investigation and process review

Total Resolution Time Benchmarks

We have 10 relevant benchmarks in our benchmarks database.

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only hours targets and cross-industry average enterprise security teams 2023 cybersecurity incidents cross-industry

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only hours range cybersecurity incidents Manufacturing

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only hours variation range cybersecurity incidents Retail and E-commerce

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only hours range by environment IT environment incidents and operational technology (OT) inc Energy and Utilities

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only hours industry-average range 2023 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society ( critical incidents Healthcare

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only hours average range 2023 Financial Services Information Sharing and Analysis Cen critical incidents Financial Services

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only hours and business days priority-based targets SMB clients IT infrastructure incidents IT infrastructure management

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only minutes general benchmark resolved cases

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only minutes average benchmark and good threshold as of 2021 resolved conversations and resolved calls all industries

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Value Unit Type Company Size Time Period Population Industry Geography Sample Size
Subscribers only business hours average and range desktop incidents desktop support global

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Common Pitfalls

Many organizations underestimate the impact of Total Resolution Time on customer loyalty and retention.

  • Failing to track resolution times can lead to blind spots in service quality. Without regular monitoring, teams may not recognize delays that frustrate customers and harm relationships.
  • Inadequate training for support staff results in inconsistent issue handling. Employees may struggle to resolve problems efficiently, leading to longer resolution times and increased customer dissatisfaction.
  • Ignoring root causes of recurring issues prevents long-term improvements. If organizations do not address the underlying problems, they will continue to face delays and inefficiencies.
  • Overcomplicating the resolution process can confuse both staff and customers. A convoluted workflow increases the likelihood of errors and prolongs resolution times.

KPI Depot is trusted by consulting, strategy, finance, and analytics teams at leading organizations worldwide, including those listed below.

AAMC Accenture AXA Bristol Myers Squibb Capgemini DBS Bank Dell Delta Emirates Global Aluminum EY GSK GlaskoSmithKline Honeywell IBM Mitre Northrup Grumman Novo Nordisk NTT Data PepsiCo Samsung Suntory TCS Tata Consultancy Services Vodafone

Improvement Levers

Enhancing Total Resolution Time requires a focus on process optimization and employee empowerment.

  • Implementing a centralized ticketing system can streamline issue tracking and resolution. This allows teams to prioritize tasks effectively and reduces time spent searching for information.
  • Regular training sessions on problem-solving techniques empower staff to resolve issues faster. Investing in skill development leads to improved efficiency and customer satisfaction.
  • Establishing clear escalation protocols ensures complex issues are addressed promptly. This minimizes delays and enhances the overall customer experience.
  • Utilizing customer feedback loops helps identify pain points in the resolution process. By actively seeking input, organizations can make data-driven adjustments to improve efficiency.

Total Resolution Time Case Study Example

A leading telecommunications provider faced challenges with its Total Resolution Time, which averaged 72 hours. This lengthy resolution period was impacting customer satisfaction, leading to increased churn rates and negative brand perception. The company initiated a project called "Resolution Revolution," aimed at reducing TRT through process reengineering and technology enhancements.

The initiative involved deploying AI-driven chatbots to handle routine inquiries, allowing human agents to focus on more complex issues. Additionally, the company invested in training programs for support staff, emphasizing efficient problem-solving techniques. By implementing a centralized knowledge base, agents could access information quickly, reducing resolution times significantly.

Within 6 months, the average TRT dropped to 30 hours, resulting in a 25% increase in customer satisfaction scores. The reduction in resolution time also led to a decrease in operational costs, as fewer resources were required to manage customer inquiries. This success not only improved customer loyalty but also positioned the company as a leader in service excellence within the telecommunications industry.

Related KPIs


What is the standard formula?
Sum of all resolution times for resolved issues / Total number of resolved issues


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FAQs about Total Resolution Time

What factors influence Total Resolution Time?

Several factors can impact Total Resolution Time, including the complexity of issues, staff training, and the efficiency of support systems. Organizations should regularly assess these elements to identify areas for improvement.

How can technology improve Total Resolution Time?

Technology can streamline workflows and automate routine tasks, significantly reducing resolution times. Implementing AI and machine learning tools can enhance problem-solving capabilities and improve overall efficiency.

Is there a standard benchmark for Total Resolution Time?

Benchmarks for Total Resolution Time vary by industry and service type. Organizations should compare their performance against industry standards to identify opportunities for improvement.

How often should Total Resolution Time be reviewed?

Regular reviews, ideally on a monthly basis, help organizations stay informed about trends and potential issues. Frequent monitoring allows for timely adjustments to processes and resources.

Can customer feedback impact Total Resolution Time?

Yes, customer feedback is invaluable for identifying pain points in the resolution process. Actively seeking input can lead to targeted improvements that enhance efficiency and satisfaction.

What role does staff training play in Total Resolution Time?

Staff training is critical for ensuring employees are equipped to resolve issues quickly and effectively. Ongoing training programs can lead to improved performance and reduced resolution times.



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