Quantify “Better”

What’s “better”, and what’s “better” worth?

“Disband the riots” is a quantifiable task. One solvable with tear gas and rubber bullets, it seems. Mission complete.

What does “better” look like there? It could be the emotional labor of building bridges with a community you exist to protect. Harder to quantify, but worth quantifying for the betterment of a public service (not to mention fewer riots)

“Deliver the food to their door” is a quantifiable task. One solvable by getting there, dropping it off, then driving away. Mission complete.

What does “better” look like there? It could be as simple as smiling and hanging around for five minutes in case there are any questions or produce that’s not up to the customer’s liking, so they can be taken away right away. Harder to quantify, but worth quantifying for the betterment of a service rendered (not to mention higher customer satisfaction).

What’s “better” look like for your important work?