Don’t mix outcome and output

Outputs are what you create or produce. For example, if you build a new feature for an app, that feature is the output. Outcomes are the results or changes that happen because of that output. Using the same example, the outcome would be how the new feature affects users. It could make them happier, increase their usage, or help the business grow.

Focusing only on outputs means you’re just checking off tasks without knowing if they’re making a difference. But outcomes tell you whether what you've made is actually helping reach your goals. For example, you could release a new forum feature (output), but if it doesn’t increase user engagement (outcome), it may not be successful. Always aim to understand how your outputs lead to the outcomes you want.