What is the role of data in monitoring progress toward strategic goals?

• A. Data is used solely for annual reporting to the board.
• B. Data is used to assign blame when goals are not met.
• C. Data is used to monitor progress toward goals and adjust actions as needed.
• D. Data is ignored if it contradicts plan.

Answer: (C)

Data provides the evidence you need to track whether you’re moving toward your strategic goals and to guide what you do next. By collecting and reviewing the right metrics, you can see which actions are producing the desired results, where gaps exist, and where adjustments in strategies, priorities, or resources are needed. This creates a continuous feedback loop: measure, learn, and act, so plans stay responsive and improvements can be made in real time rather than only after the fact. Using data to blame or to ignore conflicting information stops learning and progress, while using data to monitor progress and adjust actions keeps the organization on a productive path toward its goals.