Source: https://datafa.st/docs/set-number-one-kpi
Markdown source: https://datafa.st/docs/set-number-one-kpi.md
Description: Choose the SaaS KPI that matters most and see attribution by source, page, country, and device.

# Set your #1 KPI

Your #1 KPI is the metric DataFast highlights across your dashboard. Use it when revenue is not the best answer yet.

![KPI dashboard preview](/kpi.png)

## When to use it

For SaaS and small startups, your best KPI is often one step before revenue:

- `signup` for a waitlist, free tool, or new SaaS launch
- `initiate_checkout` for a paid product before many purchases happen
- `trial_started` for a self-serve SaaS with free trials
- `activation` for a product where the first real action matters, like creating a project or inviting a teammate

## How it works

1. Track the action as a [custom goal](/docs/custom-goals).
2. Go to your [website settings](/dashboard) and open **#1 KPI**.
3. Choose **Goal**, pick your KPI, and save.
4. Confirm the change in the modal.

DataFast then shows that goal as the main KPI in your dashboard. The source, page, location, and device cards can show attribution for this KPI instead of revenue, so you can answer questions like:

- Which channel brings the most signups?
- Which landing page drives checkout starts?
- Which country sends users who activate?

You can also set a goal as your #1 KPI from the goals card in the dashboard, then change it later in website settings.

## Example

If you run a small AI SaaS, set `signup` as your #1 KPI until you have enough paid customers. Once checkout volume grows, switch to `initiate_checkout` or `trial_started` to see which campaigns and pages bring higher-intent users.