The output should make the tradeoff visible enough for someone else to inspect, challenge, and act on.
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product, ux & customer framework
Convert goals into observable signals and measurable metrics.
quick answer
Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) is a metrics matrix for Metrics definition. It turns the decision into named fields, evidence, and a visible goals-signals-metrics (gsm) worksheet / visual.
The output should make the tradeoff visible enough for someone else to inspect, challenge, and act on.
Convert goals into observable signals and measurable metrics.
Use HEART Framework when its output is closer to the conversation you need: Measure experience via happiness, engagement, adoption, retention and task success.
worked example
A filled example is easier to understand than a blank template. Use it to see the shape before applying the framework to your own case.
A filled example so you can see the shape before applying Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) to your own context.
A filled example so you can see the shape before applying Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) to your own context.
generate yours
Start Ask PL with the framework, required inputs, and your context. It will ask for missing details, render the metrics matrix, and explain what decision the output should change.
Apply Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) to my situation. Context: [Decision, audience, options, evidence, and constraints.] Use the Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) structure: - HEART categories: Happiness, Engagement, Adoption, Retention, Task Success: - GSM columns: Goals, Signals, Metrics: Ask only for missing inputs that would change the output. Then render the metrics matrix and name the decision it should change.
how to use it
Use the framework to change a decision, not to fill a worksheet. Start narrow, add evidence, then inspect what the goals-signals-metrics (gsm) worksheet / visual makes clearer.
Write the concrete metrics definition choice, tradeoff, or conversation the framework should change.
Fill the important slots: HEART categories: Happiness, Engagement, Adoption, Retention, Task Success, GSM columns: Goals, Signals, Metrics.
Mark what is measured, what comes from customers, and what is still judgment.
End with the next move, the riskiest assumption, or the evidence that would change the goals-signals-metrics (gsm) worksheet / visual.
quality check
Use this check after the artifact is filled. Blank fields are not failure; they are the next research question. Look for concrete evidence, missing constraints, and assumptions that would change the next move.
The framework needs a concrete decision. Broad intent turns it into a worksheet, not a decision aid.
Good framework output makes assumptions visible enough for someone else to challenge.
The diagram is useful only if it changes the next product conversation.
common mistakes
Do not use Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) as a worksheet. Name the choice, conversation, or tradeoff the output should change.
Separate measured facts, customer evidence, and leadership judgment so weak assumptions stay visible.
If the diagram does not match the decision, switch frameworks instead of stretching the boxes.
The framework should clarify the next move. It should not replace strategy, sequencing, or judgment.
use something else when
Measure experience via happiness, engagement, adoption, retention and task success.
Connect mission, strategy, goals, roadmap and tasks.
Align vision, target group, needs, product, business goals and strategy.
faq
Convert goals into observable signals and measurable metrics.
Business context; objectives; available evidence; stakeholder judgment
Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) worksheet / visual
Use Goals-Signals-Metrics (GSM) when the decision matches this job: Convert goals into observable signals and measurable metrics.
Avoid it when you need HEART Framework's output instead: Measure experience via happiness, engagement, adoption, retention and task success.
It is both: a structure for thinking and a visible metrics matrix that makes the decision easier to inspect.
A good input names the real decision, uses concrete evidence, and separates facts from assumptions.
Use the goals-signals-metrics (gsm) worksheet / visual to choose the next move, name the riskiest assumption, or decide what evidence would change the call.
Use HEART Framework when the real output you need is closer to: Measure experience via happiness, engagement, adoption, retention and task success.
Yes. Describe your context and Ask PL can ask for missing inputs, render the metrics matrix, and explain what decision it should change.