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A dashboard with 50 metrics is a common anti-pattern. When everything is important, nothing is truly important. A good metrics framework starts with the question: if this metric changes, would I do something differently? If not — don't measure it.

KPI framework
Measuring the right things matters more than measuring many things

North Star Metric and Supporting Metrics

Every startup should have 1 North Star Metric — the number that reflects the core value you create for customers. Build 3-5 Input Metrics (things the team can directly influence to improve the North Star) and 2-3 Health Metrics (things that must not deteriorate while you optimize the North Star).

Vanity metrics to avoid: page views, followers, app downloads when not correlated with retention or revenue. They make you feel good but don't say anything important.

Your startup doesn't lack data — you lack the right questions. Data only has value when connected to specific decisions.

Pham Thu Huong, Executive Coach