What it actually means
I have a vague sense something is off in this number and I'd like to make you find it.
Surface meaning: To examine details of a topic more closely.
If someone just said “Drill Down” in a meeting, here is what they probably meant, what to do about it, and how to keep your sanity.
In the wild
CFO: Can you drill down on this number?
Analyst: (spends 6 hours; number was off by rounding)
How to respond
Before drilling, ask which dimension. 'Drill down on revenue' splits 12 ways. Pick one before opening the spreadsheet.
Origin
From geology and oil drilling. Migrated to BI dashboards in the 1990s.
FAQ
What does "Drill Down" actually mean?
I have a vague sense something is off in this number and I'd like to make you find it.
Where did the phrase "Drill Down" come from?
From geology and oil drilling. Migrated to BI dashboards in the 1990s.
How should I respond when someone says "Drill Down"?
Before drilling, ask which dimension. 'Drill down on revenue' splits 12 ways. Pick one before opening the spreadsheet.
Related corporate vocabulary
This was, of course, a meeting that should have been an email.
Run the fake meeting simulator. Generate a bingo card. Be busy without being there.
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