I like using the following statement when it comes to choosing inappropriate data-points as a means of tracking or comparison.
"When a metric becomes a goal, it ceases to be a metric."
You stated very good examples of outcomes that supports this. Teams and individuals will adjust their behavior to meet the goals or expectations that get set. And it's not malicious, it's natural. Commit counts and code-lines changed being used as goals also create this, and are there inappropriate data-points to use.
I like using the following statement when it comes to choosing inappropriate data-points as a means of tracking or comparison.
"When a metric becomes a goal, it ceases to be a metric."
You stated very good examples of outcomes that supports this. Teams and individuals will adjust their behavior to meet the goals or expectations that get set. And it's not malicious, it's natural. Commit counts and code-lines changed being used as goals also create this, and are there inappropriate data-points to use.