To view it in another way, consider the difference between…
““To view it in another way, consider the difference between judging on process and judging on results. Lower-ranking persons in the enterprise are judged on both process and results—in fact, owing to the repetitive aspect of their efforts, their process converges rapidly to results. But top management is only paid on result—no matter the process. There seems to be no such thing as a foolish decision if it results in profits. “Money talks,” we are often told. The rest is supposed to be philosophy.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Highlights that lower‑level workers are evaluated on both process and outcomes, while top executives are judged solely on results, encouraging profit‑focused decisions over sound processes.
In simple terms: Lower ranks judged on process and results; top judged only on results.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the bias toward outcomes in leadership evaluation.
Themes
leadership
evaluation
process
Mood
critical
insightful
Type
business
philosophical
When to use this quote
- corporate strategy
- performance reviews
- risk management
Key Concepts
profit focus
decision making
organizational hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this bias affect long‑term sustainability?
- What mechanisms can reward good process?
A Different Perspective
Focusing only on results can ignore harmful processes.