Execution Gap

The execution gap is the distance between the target outcome and the realized outcome.

What is the execution gap?

The execution gap arises when execution fails to realize the outcome implied by the chosen direction. Unlike the decision gap, it is observable. It forms through accumulation rather than at a single point: a series of small local decisions, each checked against whatever is closest at hand, none of which looks like a step away from the intent.

What it is not

Not simply late or over-budget delivery. A change can be delivered on time and within budget and still leave a large execution gap, because the gap is measured in outcomes rather than in effort or schedule.

Where it sits

Related concepts

• Intent Gap: The execution gap is the second component of the intent gap.
• Silent Drift: It opens through silent drift, and tracing intent is the practice that reduces its avoidable part.
• Tracing Intent: It opens through silent drift, and tracing intent is the practice that reduces its avoidable part.

Referenced by

• The Intent Loop
• Intent Gap
• Execution
• Target Outcome
• Realized Outcome
• Silent Drift
• Execution (stage)