Are you measuring your business against the wrong standards? In this thought-provoking article, Hunt Demarest challenges the idea that benchmarking alone leads to success—and explains why every shop needs its own roadmap. This article was originally published on Ratchet+Wrench.com and dives into the dangers of comparing your business to others without understanding your own goals.

Through relatable storytelling and real-world insights, Demarest shows how following someone else’s formula—even if it works for them—can lead to frustration and burnout. He breaks down the popular “good, fast, cheap—pick two” concept and applies it to business decisions, emphasizing that your priorities will shape your outcomes.

While industry benchmarks like labor rates, ARO, and compensation models can offer useful context, Demarest makes it clear that they don’t guarantee profitability or satisfaction. Instead, he highlights one key driver that consistently matters—technician productivity—while reinforcing that success should be defined on your own terms, not someone else’s.

This article is a must-read for owners who want to grow intentionally, not just imitate others.

👉 Read more on Ratchet+Wrench to build a business that aligns with your goals—not someone else’s blueprint.