A function that translates a value of an indicator to a quantitative measure of performance with respect to a desired outcome.  In Signposts, summary measures are used to show the degree to which the desired outcome is being achieved on a scale of 0 to 1.

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The summary measure provides an interpretation of the indicator. The summary measure is often referred to as a ‘performance measure’ or a ‘performance indicator.’  It may incorporate a target or a threshold, an acceptable range or simply reflect the fact that larger (or smaller) values of the indicator are preferred.

Different individuals may hold different views about the interpretation of an indicator and these can be expressed through different summary measures. By making the form of the summary measure explicit, different opinions can be identified and explored.