Communication is key, not just numbers

Not just numbers, communication is key: Plan and Fact in a New Approach

One of the essential elements of modern organisations is measurability, most often expressed in numbers, indicators and KPIs. In business, comparing “plan and fact” is a powerful tool to see where we are in achieving our goals. However, it is important to recognise that numbers in themselves are just tools – a language to support organisational communication. Numbers are not a substitute for face-to-face interactions, but they can reinforce and guide them.

In this blog, we explore how numbers and communication complement each other, why it is not enough to rely on dry data, and how this can help avoid misunderstandings, clarify responsibilities and create effective meetings.

Numbers as Communication Tools

Numbers, indicators and KPIs are a great way to simplify and clarify communication in an organisation. For example, a comparison of plan and fact can quickly show whether you are behind or over-achieving your target. This data is objective and unemotional, which is extremely useful when strategic decisions need to be made.

However, numbers cannot answer all questions. They do not explain why we have not achieved a goal, who is responsible for a given result, or how we will solve the problem. These questions can only be answered through personal communication.