A dashboard is a visual display of key metrics in a consolidated view, used for real-time or periodic monitoring of company, function, or initiative performance. Most dashboards are useless because they show too many metrics without prioritization, lack action triggers, and aren't used for decisions. Rare useful dashboards show the 5-10 metrics that matter most with clear targets, trend visibility, and explicit action implications when metrics deviate. It is one of the most-built and least-effective operational artifacts at most companies.
The components of useful dashboards:
Prioritized metrics (5-10, not 50):
Clear targets and benchmarks:...