What is Measuring and Assessing?

The practice of measuring and assessing gives insight into the context, the innovation, and the impacts of the innovation. It helps innovators prioritize threats and opportunities and see changes in the system. This practice draws on diverse types of data from a variety of sources, not just easily available quantitative data so that a broader picture comes into view.

Why Measure and Assess?

• Acknowledge unstated assumptions. To measure and assess the potential, probable, desired, and actual impact, we need to draw boundaries around the system we seek to impact. This requires us to acknowledge our assumptions about our desires and the boundaries of the system.
• Communicate ideas. This practice provides a body of information that can be communicated to others, whether it be by way of quantitative impacts or by stories.
• Assess progress towards the intended goals. As innovations are driven by the desire to meet a goal, this practice helps you learn if you are moving in the direction of that goal. These insights can then feed into future decisions.