Making the Invisible Obvious: The Pinocchio Protocol for Real-World Accountability

We often miss what's right in front of us, especially when it comes to gradual or hidden changes. The Pinocchio protocol, a cryptographic concept, offers a powerful analogy for real-world accountability. Just like Pinocchio's nose grew with each lie, the protocol creates a visible sign of something invisible.

In our daily lives, this translates to making important but overlooked aspects clear. Imagine cigarette smoke staining a smoker's face, a stark reminder of the hidden consequences of their habit.

Bedah's Story: An Example of Real World

Take Bedah, an administrator tasked with compiling a report. She uploaded a collaborative format on OneDrive for department heads (HODs) to update their sections and set a submission deadline. However, one HOD complained about having to work all night due to Bedah's lack of information sharing.

The truth, however, was evident in the document's history on OneDrive. The HOD never logged in, he even ask Bedah to summarize his report a day before (after working hour), yet claimed to have worked tirelessly. He even contradicted himself by complaining to Bedah's superior about a different story.

Bedah's evidence – the document's access history – acted as his Pinocchio's nose, exposing the HOD's lie and shirking of responsibility.

Pinocchio: Symbols of Truth, Lies and Labyrinth of Deception

The Takeaway: Visibility Breeds Accountability

The key takeaway? If something matters, find a way to make it visible. If it unfolds over time, create a signal that brings the future into the present. By creating clear measurements of essential variables, you gain a significant advantage in any situation.

Just like Bedah's use of OneDrive history, having a system for capturing evidence helps ensure accountability and discourages deception. In essence, the Pinocchio Protocol reminds us that even in our everyday lives, truth has a way of revealing itself.