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Principle Quote by Nancy G. Leveson

“A basic principle of system theory is that no control system will perform better than its measuring channel.” quote by Nancy G. Leveson
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““A basic principle of system theory is that no control system will perform better than its measuring channel.””

Nancy G. Leveson

About This Quote

Source Book: Engineering a Safer World, Nancy G. Leveson, 2011

A system cannot be better than the tool that measures it; measurement limits performance.

In simple terms: Measurement limits system performance.

Key Takeaway

Improve measurement tools.

Themes

systems engineering measurement control theory

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

technical educational

When to use this quote

  • quality assurance
  • software development
  • process control

Key Concepts

feedback loops instrumentation system limits

Questions to Reflect On

  • How reliable are your metrics?
  • Can you trust your data?
A Different Perspective

Improving measurement can be costly and complex.

4.5 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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