When to use it
Use it before introducing dashboards or benefit targets.
When to be cautious
A convenient activity count can reward behaviour that harms the intended outcome.
Apply it
- State the decision and outcome the indicator supports.
- Define the population, units, measurement window and data source.
- Record a baseline and review unintended incentives.
An example in practice
Count successfully completed applications within the service target, not just applications opened by staff.
Source & credit
Standard estimating practice; the cited guide documents use rather than claiming invention.
GAO: Cost Estimating and Assessment Guide
This explanation and example are independently written. The source is a reading reference; linking it does not grant permission to reuse its text, figures or assessments.