This paper examines the limitations of established assessment techniques when applied to the heuristic work practices found in professions. The paper observes that the search for quality by means of the imposition of quantitative measures is at best restrictive and at worst dangerous and misleading when applied to the work of professional services. Describing an approach originally conceived for the assessment of police work, the paper argues that the concept "acceptable" has high utility in the valuing of professional work. The paper argues that the model of professional as "negotiator" is relevant in terms of the way an "acceptable" solution to novel problems may be defined. The paper reasons that in terms of the provision of direct professional services, success should be judged according to what may be negotiated between those affected and the constraints imposed by the role of the professional practitioner.
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