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Goals Quote by Charles Goodhart

“When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure.” quote by Charles Goodhart
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““When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure.””

Charles Goodhart

About This Quote

Source Book: The Economics of Control, 1975

When a metric is turned into a goal, it loses its effectiveness as an indicator.

In simple terms: Targets distort true measurement.

Key Takeaway

Beware of metric fixation.

Themes

economics policy measurement

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

critical observational

When to use this quote

  • business management
  • public policy
  • education
  • healthcare

Key Concepts

incentive theory perverse incentives

Questions to Reflect On

  • What measures have you seen become targets?
  • How can we preserve metric integrity?
A Different Perspective

May ignore qualitative aspects.

2.0 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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