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In an earlier blog, we talked about assessing dependability. That is only one part of the equation for evaluating your capability to execute. The other part is the reliability.

In measuring dependability, we look at whether a promise was kept. In reliability, we look at the speed of keeping a promise.

Measuring reliability

This is not meant to be a six sigma level measurement. Often a quick assessment is not only cost effective, but a career saver. Be sure to use data, not your opinion. One fail safe way to implement this is to make a clear and explicit request. Then measure how quickly you got the request serviced.

Be sure to understand your role in this equation. If you do not have clarity on outcomes or what success looks like, you should spend time getting this, or ask for help to define success. Clarity includes matters like budget and timeline, and any constraints that you may be aware of. If you make a foggy request, it is unfair on your part to hold your partner or service provider accountable.

If your partner or service provider does not understand your request or cannot help you clarify it, it is definitely time to get a new partner or service provider. Don’t settle for second best, because that is what you are going to get.