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Measure progress with actionable metrics from "summary" of The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
To measure progress with actionable metrics means choosing a specific, quantifiable indicator that can guide decision-making and drive action. These metrics should be tied to the fundamental drivers of the business, such as revenue, user engagement, or customer retention. Instead of relying on vague, vanity metrics that give a false sense of progress, actionable metrics provide clear insights into how the business is performing and what needs to be done next. The key to using actionable metrics effectively is to focus on those that are leading indicators of success. These metrics help predict future outcomes and allow for adjustments to be made proactively. For example, instead of looking at total sales at the end of the quarter, a startup might track the number of new sign-ups each week to anticipate revenue trends. By monitoring these leading indicators, the startup can make changes in real-time to improve performance and achieve its goals. In addition to being leading indicators, actionable metrics should also be specific and easily understood by everyone in the organization. This ensures that everyone is working towards the same goals and can make informed decisions based on the data. For example, if a startup is focused on increasing user engagement, a metric like daily active users or time spent on the platform can provide clear, actionable insights into how well the product is resonating with customers. Furthermore, actionable metrics should be actionable in the sense that they directly inform what steps need to be taken to improve performance. For example, if a startup sees a drop in user engagement, they can use this metric to guide experiments and initiatives aimed at increasing customer satisfaction and retention. By tying metrics to specific actions, startups can iterate quickly, learn from their mistakes, and continuously improve their products and services.- Measuring progress with actionable metrics is essential for startups to stay agile and responsive in a fast-paced, uncertain business environment. By focusing on leading indicators, specificity, and actionability, startups can make data-driven decisions that lead to sustainable growth and success. This approach empowers startups to learn quickly, adapt to changing market conditions, and ultimately build products that customers love.
