CopenhagenContext 2015

It seems that most organizations have some kind of metrics program; and almost all of them are ineffective. Lee Copeland explains the concept of “measurement” and then describes two key reasons for these almost universal failures. The first major mistake people make is forgetting that the model we are using for measurement is not necessarily reality. The second major blunder is treating ideas as if they were real things and then counting them. Lee describes the “Four Don’ts of Metrics” – don’t measure it unless you know what it means; don’t measure it if you’re not going to do something with the measurement; no matter what else you do, don’t turn your measurement into a goal; and focus your measurements on accomplishments, not effort. Over the years, Lee has discovered his favorite project indicator that is not a measurement at all. You’ll be surprised to learn what it is. In conclusion, Lee shares his Zeroth Law of Metrics to guide your program to success.