Location, Time, and Measurements

[New Metrics for Success – V]

When I lived in Idaho, my Ford diesel truck was a practical necessity. It could haul heavy weight, it handled harsh conditions well, and, honestly, it meant I fit in. (Especially if it was dirty.) Owning and using a diesel truck was a symbol of wisdom in Idaho. Not so much in Seattle. I can’t find a parking spot big enough. The truck (and the grey exhaust) symbolizes ignorance and poverty.

Location matters when we look for what to measure.

In the 1950’s, a 1000 sq ft home was average. It symbolized middle class and was a sign of financial stability. Only condominiums, mobile homes, or small townhouses are that size anymore. The average home in the last ten years is at least double that. Expectations for amenities, special features, and yard design have all dramatically shifted too.

Time matters when we look for what to measure.

Tomorrow, these measurement will, yet again, mean something different.

We can only know what to measure today. And the surest measurement for success is our willingness to constantly adjust our measurements to reflect location and time—our context.

(There are a few exceptions. I’ll reflect on those next week.)