Riddle Me This, Riddle Me That: Are You Using the Right Metrics or Just Chasing Stats?

In 1995’s Batman Forever, Jim Carrey's Riddler taunts Bruce Wayne (Val Kimer RIP) with the iconic line:

"Riddle me this, riddle me that…"

It's a fitting metaphor for product management because let's be honest, figuring out which metrics matter can feel like solving a riddle. There's no shortage of data to pull, dashboards to build, or charts to share. But knowing when to use a metric and when to walk away from it takes more than analytics black belt. It takes judgment.

Think of it like Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler":

You got to know when to hold 'em,
Know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away,
And know when to run…

Good product leaders treat metrics like poker hands. Some are strong bets, customer retention, lifetime value, engagement scores. Others are bluff-worthy, vanity metrics dressed up to impress stakeholders but offering little insight. And then there are the ones that used to be useful but no longer reflect the story your product is telling.

Used wisely, the right metrics give you clarity, alignment, and traction. Used poorly, they'll lead you in circles while making you think you're making progress. The difference? Knowing the game, you're playing and what counts as a winning hand.

The Winning Hand: Playing Metrics Like a Pro