Discipline 3: Keep a Compelling Scoreboard
Track progress to win
Discipline 3 is about creating a compelling scoreboard that tracks progress and helps teams stay focused on their goals. A compelling scoreboard is simple, visible, and shows both lead and lag measures. It helps teams understand their performance and make adjustments to win. The scoreboard is not just a tool for leaders, but a way to engage the entire team and create a sense of ownership and accountability.
- People play differently when they are keeping score.
- A compelling scoreboard is simple, visible, and shows both lead and lag measures.
- The scoreboard should be designed for the players, not just the leaders.
- Determine the GoalIdentify the goal or WIG (Wildly Important Goal) that the team is working towards. This goal should be specific, measurable, and achievable.Pro tipMake sure the goal is aligned with the organization's overall strategy and objectives.WarningAvoid setting too many goals, as this can lead to confusion and dilute focus.
- Identify Lead and Lag MeasuresDetermine the lead measures that will drive progress towards the goal, and the lag measures that will indicate success. Lead measures are the activities or behaviors that will drive progress, while lag measures are the outcomes or results.Pro tipMake sure the lead measures are specific, measurable, and achievable, and that they are aligned with the goal.WarningAvoid using too many lead measures, as this can lead to confusion and dilute focus.
- Create a Compelling ScoreboardDesign a scoreboard that is simple, visible, and shows both lead and lag measures. The scoreboard should be easy to understand and provide a clear picture of progress towards the goal.Pro tipUse visual aids such as graphs, charts, and tables to make the scoreboard easy to understand.WarningAvoid using too much data or complex metrics, as this can lead to confusion and dilute focus.
- Review and AdjustRegularly review the scoreboard and adjust as needed. This includes updating the lead and lag measures, and making adjustments to the goal or strategy as needed.Pro tipMake sure to involve the team in the review and adjustment process, to ensure everyone is aligned and engaged.WarningAvoid making too many changes to the scoreboard or goal, as this can lead to confusion and dilute focus.
A low-performing plant was able to turn around its performance after implementing a scoreboard. The plant had never hit its targeted production number and had massive quality issues, but after implementing a scoreboard, they were able to improve their performance and achieve their goals.
An events management company was able to improve its performance and achieve its goals after implementing a scoreboard. The company was responsible for booking trade shows for outdoor retailers, and the scoreboard helped them track progress and make adjustments as needed.
The concept of a compelling scoreboard was developed through the authors' work with various organizations, including a low-performing plant that was able to turn around its performance after implementing a scoreboard. The authors also drew on their experience working with teams in different industries, including sports, to develop the principles of a compelling scoreboard.