John quoted The Systems Bible by John Gall
Content warning Section A.4
Or he may not write any papers at all, devoting the time instead to a book for which the idea has matured unexpectedly. In that case his “success is zero. No matter that he’s over achieved in an unexpected area. If the chief wants to get rid of him. He need only point out his “failure”.
— The Systems Bible by John Gall (Page 27)
This is a critique of measured systems that has long plagued me. The requirement to define success criteria ahead of time, especially in areas where the outcomes are unknown, is deeply disturbing and often counterproductive.