Operating Principle

2–4 min read

When a Measure Becomes a Target, It Stops Working

When a Measure Becomes a Target, It Stops Working

When a Measure Becomes a Target, It Stops Working

Once rewarded for a number, people optimize the number rather than the outcome.

Once rewarded for a number, people optimize the number rather than the outcome.

Once rewarded for a number, people optimize the number rather than the outcome.

Goodhart’s Law explains why proxies stop tracking reality when targeted.

Goodhart’s Law explains why proxies stop tracking reality when targeted.

Goodhart’s Law explains why proxies stop tracking reality when targeted.

Goodhart’s Law explains why proxies stop tracking reality when targeted.

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Operating Question

What system structure, feedback loop, or incentive is producing this outcome?

What system structure, feedback loop, or incentive is producing this outcome?

What system structure, feedback loop, or incentive is producing this outcome?

Why It Matters

Goodhart’s Law explains why proxies stop tracking reality when targeted.

Supporting Evidence

Charles Goodhart; Marilyn Strathern on metric gaming.

Research Notes

Use this as a systems diagnosis lens and test its fit against the specific operating context.

Practical Actions

Pair targets with counter-metrics; ask how gaming works; audit metric validity.

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