I'm the one doing research on complexity and cost management.
I've enjoyed the last couple of posts by Ben and Gene, especially
Ben's anon friend re: measurement and managing.
This is my line of thinking exactly.
Non-linear measurements are possible with fractal mathematics, we
need to consider this. And Pattern, pattern modelling is, I believe,
the solution to performance measurement in learning orgs.
Okay, I suppose part of the solution.
The world of pattern is another whole new dimension.
I'm quietly observing an interesting list discussion on patterns
software. Not sure of the address right now.
Anyone who wants to sprout forth any sort of knowledge about
measurement had better start getting into the world of pattern.
Good starting point is Chris Alexander's "PATTERN LANGUAGE"
And, everyone should read Gregory Bateson MIND & NATURE
to understand the pattern that connects.
Also, if you're into measurement like I am, you've got to start
reading Peirce (pronounced Purse) and his study of signs, SEMIOTICS.
Most of the messages about measurement, and its pitfalls, are spot on.
What is missing from the discussion is some deeper knowledge of WHY
measurement has these pitfalls. Without WHY we cant begin to explore
solutions. Join me and get into Patterns, Semiotics, Autopoiesis, and
complexity, and then let's get the discussion on measurement off its
present elementary level. No offence intended to anyone, please.
Jeff Blumberg
jeffb@illovo.co.za
[Host's Note: I've found Peirce very slow going, but rewarding. Jeff,
would you give us a short intro to why measurement has these pitfalls?
...Rick]
--"Jeff Blumberg" <jeffb@illovo.co.za>
Learning-org -- An Internet Dialog on Learning Organizations For info: <rkarash@karash.com> -or- <http://world.std.com/~lo/>