---
title: Why are value measures often considered lagging indicators?
description: "[Value](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/value/) measures are typically lagging indicators because they can only be assessed after the relevant work has been completed. This delay makes it challenging to take timely actions based on these measures, as organisations must wait to gain insights from…"
url: "https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/docs/why-are-value-measures-often-considered-lagging-indicators/"
updated: "2024-12-19"
category: "Evidence-Based Management / Leading & Lagging Indicators"
---

# Why are value measures often considered lagging indicators?

[Value](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/value/) measures are typically lagging indicators because they can only be assessed after the relevant work has been completed. This delay makes it challenging to take timely actions based on these measures, as organisations must wait to gain insights from them. Consequently, responding to lagging indicators requires patience and a long-term perspective.

Many organisations tend to prioritise faster [Metrics](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/metrics/), such as activity and output measures, over [Value](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/value/) measures. This focus on immediate productivity can overshadow the importance of assessing [Value](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/value/) and quality, potentially leading to inefficiencies. As a result, organisations may produce large quantities of work without necessarily ensuring its [Value](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/value/) or relevance to customers.