A derogatory nickname for someone who fixates on minor, inconsequential details of a job while missing the bigger picture. In manufacturing and engineering, this describes an inspector or project manager who rejects perfectly functional work over cosmetic flaws or pedantic rule following. The term implies that the person slows down production without actually improving quality.
Heard on the job
We could have shipped this unit yesterday if the new rivet counter in QC didn't reject it over a scratched decal.
Insider tip
Never put a known rivet counter in charge of a rush job, as they will halt production over a single misaligned screw.
Do not mix it up with
- Bean counter: A bean counter obsesses over budgets and costs, while a rivet counter obsesses over physical details and specifications.