The attempts to build performance measurement systems into simulation have been with high expectation, but have ended with limited outcomes. More often than not the performance measurement system was envisioned, implemented, and then set aside. Instructors did not include it among their tasks for simulator operation and instruction. Some have said the instructor operator station (IOS) was so complex that the instructor/operator did not have the time to also work the performance measurement system. Now with the growth in both computational power and software strength, the instructor/operator role can be significantly reduced. Integration of technologies such as voice recognition will simplify operator tasks and give time for more focused student training. Others have shown that the instructor does not allow deviations in student aviation training, so the traditional performance measurement of flight deviations was of little value to the instructor. Knowledge of instructor support systems has improved and understanding of performance measurement has matured. Trend analysis tied with artificial intelligence can become an advisor to the instructor, including the memory of learner profiles and the store of appropriate instructional strategy options. Close monitoring of student performance will give a capability for the right feedback to reinforce good choices and correct responses. The performance measurement system will not only improve training effectiveness, it will also improve training efficiency, helping reduce the overall life cycle cost. Thus the performance measurement system makes a weapon system more affordable. The time has come for the realization of the long held vision that performance measurement systems become an integral part of the total training system. This paper presents the historical background that has given us the lessons learned from past efforts in performance measurement. An approach is presented for development of a performance measurement system within the context of a total training system. This performance measurement system becomes a career companion for a full life-cycle of performance improvement.