Our creative director argues that putting metrics or weekly measurables on his design and branding seat kills his artistic process. He refuses to agree to any numeric goals on our Scorecard. How do we handle a creative leader who claims their seat is exempt from data accountability?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Every seat on your Accountability Chart must have measurable outcomes, and the creative director seat is no exception. Artistry and accountability are not mutually exclusive.

First, explain to your creative director that measurables do not exist to micromanage his artistic process. They exist to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of his output. A seat without numbers is a seat without accountability, which creates friction for the rest of the team.

Collaborate with him to identify three to five weekly leading indicators that he can track. These numbers should focus on throughput, deadlines, and quality. For example, his measurables could include meeting design draft deadlines, staying within project hour budgets, or maintaining a high client satisfaction score.

Add these metrics to your weekly Scorecard. If your creative director refuses to track these numbers or claims his seat cannot be measured, you have a GWC issue. He does not want the accountability that comes with the seat.

As an owner, you must hold the line. If you allow one leader to bypass the Scorecard, you undermine the accountability of your entire leadership team. He must either agree to be held accountable to numbers, or you must find a creative leader who does GWC a structured, data-driven seat.