From my experience it is often a mixed bag. People use those metrics that support their subjective ideas/gut feelings. If these turn out wrong they can always fall back to some "its all the numbers fault" or "Deloitte said so" explanation.
In my opinion the whole Consulting industry strives substantially on the fact, that they provide management with a third external authority. This is an ideal constellation for a manager since first the consulting firm's suggestions don't have to be implemented if they are not representing his/her interest. But if they are in line with the personal view, they give additional weight to that position. Moreover afterwards if the project is a success the manager can still take the credit for for the project but if it fails it was all the consulting firm's fault.
Comments
From my experience it is often a mixed bag. People use those metrics that support their subjective ideas/gut feelings. If these turn out wrong they can always fall back to some "its all the numbers fault" or "Deloitte said so" explanation.
In my opinion the whole Consulting industry strives substantially on the fact, that they provide management with a third external authority. This is an ideal constellation for a manager since first the consulting firm's suggestions don't have to be implemented if they are not representing his/her interest. But if they are in line with the personal view, they give additional weight to that position. Moreover afterwards if the project is a success the manager can still take the credit for for the project but if it fails it was all the consulting firm's fault.