Why Systems Optimized for Metrics Eventually Drift from Reality [pdf](offbrandguy.com)

Why Systems Optimized for Metrics Eventually Drift from Reality [pdf]

https://offbrandguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/optimization-trap-reality-drift-framework-2023-2026-a-jacobs.pdf

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Short concept note describing a structural pattern where systems optimized for proxy metrics gradually lose alignment with the real-world conditions they were meant to measure.

Examples include engagement algorithms, KPI-driven organizations, and benchmark gaming in ML.