This document discusses performance management in the NHS. It outlines how performance indicators can be used formatively to facilitate local management or summatively to set targets and hold locals accountable. Summative performance management has led to problems like gaming the system, faking data, and prioritizing what is measured over patient care. Governments continue this approach for political reasons even though it undermines trust and honesty. Potential remedies include random monitoring, inspections, and abandoning quantitative targets in favor of understanding work and improving systems for patients.