Assessment Quote by W. Edwards Deming
“...the most important things we need to manage can't be measured.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Out of the Crisis, W. Edwards Deming, 1982
Some vital aspects of management resist quantification, yet they are crucial for success.
In simple terms: Key management aspects can’t be measured.
Key Takeaway
Focus on qualitative assessment.
Themes
management
measurement
leadership
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- strategic planning
- team dynamics
- culture building
- performance reviews
Key Concepts
systems thinking
qualitative analysis
organizational health
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you evaluate what cannot be measured?
- What qualitative signals indicate success?
A Different Perspective
Quantification can miss nuance and lead to over‑reliance on metrics.
