How do we handle off-track Scorecard metrics during the Level 10 Meeting when the team member accountable for that number is out of the office? Do we wait for them to return or drop it to the issues list immediately?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

You must drop the off-track metric to the issues list immediately. Waiting for the accountable person to return to discuss a red metric delays progress and weakens your operational discipline. The Level 10 Meeting™ is designed to maintain a consistent weekly rhythm, and that rhythm cannot halt just because someone is out of the office. The rule is simple: if a number is red, it must be dropped to the issues list. If the owner of that metric is absent, the team must look at the issue and decide if it can be solved without them or if a temporary action is needed to keep the business safe. If the issue requires the absent person's input, the team can assign a To-Do to that person to address it immediately upon their return. Alternatively, another team member can step in to gather data or run a temporary fix. This approach prevents problems from festering for an extra week. By addressing the issue in their absence, you reinforce the leader-leader model. The team is collectively responsible for maintaining the health of the business, even if individuals are away. This ensures your operations remain resilient and that your team does not rely on a single point of failure, which is a critical factor when preparing your business for a clean, successful exit.