Module 2 • 22 min
Establishing Baseline Metrics
Measure the current process before projecting automation value.Core Concept
A baseline records the current time, cost, error rate, volume, service level, and confidence in the measurement. It gives reviewers a common starting point for testing whether the automation changed the outcome.
This decision affects the value, delivery effort, operating ownership, and risk profile of the initiative long after the first release.
How to Apply This in Your Organization
Use the closest reliable operational source and document the method, time period, owner, and gaps in the data.
Use one real workflow, its current systems and data, and the people accountable for the outcome. The purpose is a decision-ready recommendation, not a theoretical evaluation.
Decision Checklist
- Choose the outcome to measure.
- Capture current volume and performance.
- Record source and confidence level.
Worked Decision Scenario
A team is evaluating establishing baseline metrics for a current automation initiative. It uses the framework to identify the narrowest viable next step, the dependency that could change the decision, and the owner responsible for resolving it.
A finance team uses four weeks of time-tracking and exception records to establish reconciliation effort before estimating an automation benefit.
Apply it
Working Exercise
Define a baseline for one candidate workflow.
Saved locally for this review prototype. Your response will become private account data when the approved course backend is connected.