Dashboard Quote by Berend van der Kolk
““I distinguish five types of indicatorism: 1. performing easy, indicator-improving tasks; 2. avoiding difficult, indicator-worsening tasks; 3. improving an indicator for the short term, at the expense of long-term goals; 4. ignoring tasks not covered by an indicator; 5. manipulating or cheating to improve an indicator.””
About This Quote
He categorizes ways people chase metrics, often at the cost of genuine progress.
In simple terms: People chase numbers, sometimes harming real goals.
Key Takeaway
Beware of metric‑driven shortcuts.
Themes
performance
metrics
ethics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- business management
- personal productivity
- policy design
Key Concepts
behavioral economics
goal alignment
Questions to Reflect On
- What indicators truly reflect success?
- How can we align metrics with values?
A Different Perspective
Metrics can incentivize short‑term gains over long‑term health.
