What Gets Measured Gets Managed – But What Should You Measure?

Why choosing the right business scorecard makes all the difference.

In business, measurement is power—but only if we’re measuring the right things.

Too often, leaders rely on financial data because it’s required or easily accessible. But if your goal is to steer the business rather than report on it, you need more than numbers from your accountant. You need a scorecard that aligns with your strategy, informs timely decisions, and encourages the behaviors you want to see across your business.

A good business scorecard starts by answering three key questions:

1. What are the results we want to achieve?
2. What processes will help us get there?
3. What behaviors will those measures promote—intentionally or unintentionally?

The Business Operating System: Performance Alignment Map (PAM) can help you identify the critical operational and support processes that must be monitored to provide your service or product reliably. Each of these should have a clearly defined Key Performance Indicator (KPI), with a direct link to your business strategy, not just your finances.

However, remember that tracking performance requires time and effort. Before rolling out a suite of metrics, ask yourself:

• Who will gather the data?
• How often will it be reviewed?
• What will success look like?
• And what actions will be triggered when targets aren’t met?

To avoid overwhelm, begin with a vital few—ideally seven to ten well-chosen measures. Ensure each has:

• A clear link to your strategic goals
• A defined owner and reporting process
• A timeframe and target
• A simple visual format
• And an unambiguous calculation method

Ultimately, your scorecard is not just a monitoring tool. It’s a steering wheel. Use it to drive toward your long-term vision, rather than just reacting to problems as they arise.

Below is an example of a simple business scorecard.

There’s wisdom in the old saying: “What gets measured gets done.” But first, measure what matters most.

Small Changes

• Choose or refine 1–3 key performance indicators that truly reflect your strategic goals.
• Check whether your current measures promote the behaviors you want to see.
• Add one process metric alongside your results metrics to improve early visibility.

Impact Perspective

A clear, actionable scorecard doesn't just track progress—it builds confidence, alignment, and momentum. When everyone knows what success looks like and how it’s measured, your team is better positioned to act with purpose and urgency.

Next Actions

For more small changes with impact buy the book: An Entrepreneur’s Guide: 7 Focus Areas to Align and Transform the Business

Read more about Business Scorecards in this blog post from December 2024 Finish 2024 Strong - Scorecard Reporting and get your free Scorecard Reporting Worksheet to easily track your progress and identify areas for improvement. 

Find out more about the Business Operating System: Performance Alignment Map when you purchase the Seven Strategies for a Healthier Business ebook and bonus video bundle.

Lead effectively and live fully