INDICADORES 📊: Cómo se definen, interpretan y construyen (Parte 2)

How to Build an Indicator Step by Step

Introduction to Indicators

• The discussion begins with the importance of understanding indicators, their purpose, and classifications before diving into the step-by-step process of building one.

Step 1: Understanding the Purpose

• Identify the reason for creating an indicator, such as improving a process, monitoring a project, or assessing public policy impact. For example, studying school dropout rates may require measuring causes behind student dropouts.

Step 2: Defining Variables

• Define the variables that will constitute your indicator and establish their relationships. This includes determining calculation formulas based on desired information types.

Types of Indicators

• Absolute Indicators: Represent a number quantifying an event or phenomenon.

• Rates: Quotients between two variables analyzed in specific contexts.

• Proportions: Relationships where the numerator is part of the denominator.

• Variations: Differences established between two elements.

Step 3: Filtering Proposed Indicators

• After proposing several indicators, filter them by asking:

• Does it clearly express what you want to measure?

• Is it monitored effectively?

• Is reliable information available for its calculation?

Step 4: Defining Goals

• Set appropriate goals for your indicator by considering:

• Current or historical values (e.g., revenue increase).

• Potential or standard values based on efficient resource management.

• Customer/user expectations and theoretical values from manufacturers.

Example Goal Setting

• If present value is at 30% and potential value at 50%, a consensus goal could be set at around 40%.

Step 5: Identifying Information Sources

• Determine where data for indicators comes from, how often it's collected, and methods of collection.

Step 6: Assigning Responsibilities

• Clarify who is responsible for generating, collecting, analyzing, and presenting information related to the indicator.

Step 7: Target Audience Consideration

• Tailor frequency calculations based on who will receive the indicator's information; this may affect presentation styles as well.

Step 8: Frequency Calculation vs. Data Collection Frequency

• Distinguish between how often calculations are made versus how frequently data is collected. For instance:

• Sales might require daily/weekly calculations.

• Government projects like poverty reduction may need less frequent assessments.

Step 9: Consolidating Indicator Details

• Prepare an indicator sheet detailing:

• Name of the indicator (clear and precise).

• Calculation formula.

• Data source and unit of measurement (e.g., percentage).

• Responsibilities regarding data collection and analysis frequency.

Final Steps in Execution

• Execute data collection and calculate the indicator according to previously defined plans while ensuring responsibilities are communicated clearly among staff involved in data handling.

Importance of Training

• Emphasize training staff on their roles concerning data collection, calculation, interpretation while being aware that analysis varies depending on context.

This structured approach provides clarity on building effective indicators tailored to specific needs within various contexts.

Understanding Performance Indicators

Types of Performance Indicators

• Maximization Trend: This trend indicates that a higher result is preferable. For instance, in a company context, an increasing number of subscribers over time is a key performance indicator (KPI) for growth.

• Minimization Trend: In contrast, this trend suggests that lower results are better. A practical example includes reducing the number of complaints and claims as part of continuous improvement efforts.

• Safety Limits: These indicators focus on maintaining results within specific ranges. An example provided is machinery temperature, which should not exceed 75 degrees Celsius to ensure safe operation.

Decision-Making Based on Indicators

• Analyzing Indicators for Decisions: The process involves making informed decisions based on analyzed indicators. The goal is to address any discrepancies between planned outcomes and actual results.

• Clarifying Intentions: When making decisions, it’s crucial to reflect on what actions you want to take in response to the data gathered from performance indicators.