I would like to make another comment on measurement from the perspective
of physics.
Measurement in physics is based on a very coherent theory - a whole web of
interrelating phenomenon the great majority of which is undisputed. Few
other fields share such a solid theoretical base.
The important thing is that measurement is based on a conceptual
understanding of the phenomenon.
Too often I see people putting numbers to things that they have only the
vaguest idea of, and call that measurement. I suggest that we need to put
a lot more time into developing the conceptual framework, before we place
much emphasis on measurement. Most organisational phenomena are very
complex, and attempts at measurement force a rather destructive
simplication.
My preference is for qualitative analysis of experiences.
Yours
Gray Southon
>Some thoughts on measuring by a physicist:
Gray Southon
Senior Lecturer, Health Studies,
University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351
Ph 02 6773 3225, Fax 02 6773 3666
Consultant in Health Management Research and Analysis
15 Parthenia St.
Caringbah, NSW 2229
Ph/fax 02 9524 7822, mobile 0414 295 328
email gsouthon@ozemail.com.au, web page http://www.ozemail.com.au/~gsouthon/
--Gray Southon <gsouthon@ozemail.com.au>
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