We can only manage what we measure. It is difficult to appreciate our progress unless we have a target we are working toward and a base from which we are working. At that point, we can assess where we are on the continuum of base to goal.
The question that we then need to ask is what data we are collecting. At no point have we had more information readily available to us through public and open sources as well as that generated internally? As a result, there is a real likelihood of being subject to information overload and even being confused by the data, leading to bad outcomes and decisions.
Once we collect the data, what do you plan to do with it? Is it merely for reporting? What does the data tell us? What decisions will we make if we are above or below our expectations, and what likely actions do we take accordingly?
Data is essential, but even more so, collecting the correct data and understanding how it will help us make decisions and manage it is more relevant. The more we can eliminate redundant, inconsistent, and irrelevant information helps avoid confusion and burden. Clarifying the most critical data we seek and how we plan to use the information gathered is insightful and gives clarity in focus and direction.
