Meaning: This quote by Elliot Richardson, a prominent lawyer and public servant, touches on the complexities of leadership and management. Richardson's words highlight the distinction between the technical aspects of a task and the broader, more abstract concepts of purpose, motivation, and measurement. In essence, he is emphasizing the importance of not only carrying out the tasks at hand but also understanding the underlying purpose, rationale, and ways to assess the effectiveness of those tasks.

In the first part of the quote, Richardson mentions "tending machinery," which can be interpreted as the hands-on, operational aspects of a job or project. This could refer to the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities that need to be managed and maintained to keep things running smoothly. It may also imply the technical or mechanical aspects of a job, such as ensuring that the equipment and processes are working efficiently.

The second part of the quote delves into the more conceptual and strategic elements of leadership and management. Richardson talks about "defining what we were trying to do and why we were doing it," which speaks to the importance of setting clear goals and understanding the purpose behind those goals. This involves articulating the mission, vision, and objectives of an organization or project, as well as aligning the efforts of the team towards a common understanding of the desired outcomes.

Furthermore, Richardson mentions "developing ways to measure how well the job was done," which highlights the need for evaluating performance and progress. This aspect of management involves establishing metrics, key performance indicators (KPIs), or other means of assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of the work being carried out. It also involves creating feedback loops and mechanisms for continuous improvement.

In essence, Richardson's quote underscores the multifaceted nature of leadership and management. It emphasizes that effective leadership goes beyond just overseeing the day-to-day operations; it involves setting a clear direction, understanding the purpose behind the work, and establishing means of evaluating progress and success.

From a practical standpoint, this quote can be applied to various contexts, including business management, project management, and organizational leadership. In the business world, for example, it highlights the need for leaders to not only focus on operational efficiency but also to articulate a compelling vision, set strategic goals, and establish ways to measure performance. In project management, it underscores the importance of defining project objectives, clarifying stakeholder expectations, and implementing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.

Moreover, in the realm of public service and governance, Richardson's words are relevant to leaders and policymakers who must balance the day-to-day management of public institutions with the broader responsibility of defining public purpose, setting policy goals, and ensuring accountability through performance measurement.

In conclusion, Elliot Richardson's quote encapsulates the nuanced nature of leadership and management. It serves as a reminder that effective leadership requires not only tending to the operational aspects of a task or organization but also defining purpose, setting goals, and establishing means of measuring success. This holistic approach to leadership and management is essential for driving progress and achieving meaningful outcomes.