The implementation of the OKR-based Performance Management System (PMS) in Quick Heal, an Indian cybersecurity company came about because of Ms. Reetu Raina, the CHRO's revelation about loopholes in the existing PMS that needed to be addressed. The old PMS had a rigid top-to-bottom approach without any mechanism for frequent feedback. Moreover, not every individual goal was tangible or aligned with the organizational strategy. As a result, it had become challenging to differentiate between high and low performers, and Quick Heal was missing out on a chance to grow as a company. The organization faced several challenges during the implementation process of the new OKR-based PMS, such as employees' resistance to change, slow transformation of the traditional goal-setting process to a more agile approach and other barriers towards the new system's adoption. Employees questioned the need and relevance of the new PMS amidst the uncertainties of the post-pandemic work norms and strongly resisted the transition. Mixed reviews from the department heads left Raina puzzled and wondering about the pitfalls of the transition, the implementation process and overall the potential of the new OKR-based PMS as a tool to create a performance-based culture at Quick Heal.

SRK Exports Pvt. Ltd., a family-owned diamond firm based in Surat, India, has over 6000 employees. Despite facing economic downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic, the company, under the guidance of founder Govind Dholakia, has managed to avoid employee layoffs. SRK's HRM practices, including performance management, training and development, recruitment and selection, employee engagement, and CSR, are well-integrated with the company's values and culture, and are supported by the Quadruple Bottom Line Approach. As the firm continues to grow and leadership transitions to the next generation, SRK must remain vigilant in maintaining its sustainable HRM practices. This case study examines the events that contributed to SRK's success in the diamond industry and highlights future challenges for the company.