I need an example of someone specifying properties X, Y and Z, thinking of an object A, and getting a completely different object B which has the specified properties but is completely unsuitable for the task.
The funniest, the best! I have to argue against the obsession to evaluate performance of humans based on allegedly "objective" figures.
Pere
If it was even *mildly* commonplace, you'd think YOU would have a great example to offer! :>
read amazon reviews, plenty there - though 'completely different' is stretching it rather.
I don't have a *good* example, that's why I am asking. To get an idea, I was thinking on something like this: consider (UK) football and a billionaire who wants to build *his* football team.
(B)illionaire asks: How to you find good players? (A)nswer: You have to look how well they play... This takes a long time. B: I want them now! Do good players have something in common? A: Well... Their thigh perimeter is usually big... B: Ok, go find me the guys with thicker thighs in the country! A: ... After some time: B: Oh, they don't score goals. Why?
Pere
How about thick survivalists on Amazon grumbling that a geologists hammer does not make a particularly good ice climbing pick.
They are both after all a pointy bit of metal with a handle.
The main problem with objectives that haven't been properly thought through is that individuals meeting their targets may actually work against the wider interests of the company to perform well.
Two that spring to mind from companies I have worked with are:
Snr accountant on quadratic bonus based on how quickly he gets debtor invoices paid and how long he can avoid paying creditors. Short term outcome rotating position on stop list of three equivalent suppliers (and hence 120 days free credit - more if they were not on the ball). Medium term bailiffs turning up at factories to take away photocopier. Ultimate outcome tramp soaked in skunk oil sat in posh reception at HQ.
Factory manager on quadratic bonus based on stock levels at end of year below some target. Outcome complete manufacturing stall in January.
The ship it and be damned model of modern software development is also a victim of executive bonuses trumping sound engineering decisions. You can always ship a patch later but the hardware needs to be sold *NOW*.
-- Regards, Martin Brown
+1! This is exactly the point I wanted to support with examples. I think I saw something funny long time ago, but can't remember where...
Full agreement here also! While it is true that software can (and should) be evolved, this is no excuse for shipping crap in the first place.
Pere
ElectronDepot website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.