The effect of the planner (supervisor) is described as a two-part process of creating a
simplified reality by the control center during observation using target indicators. and the response of
adjusting the observed object to these targets. As a result, a contradiction arises between one's own goals
dictated by scientific activity and the goals of indicators. Since the requirement on the part of indicators
is a priority, scientific activity is replaced by imitation. In the long run, the simplified reality model
becomes the norm, causing a persistent backwardness of the country's research teams from those of
foreign colleagues and competitors for which periods of external control did not last long. On the example
of reforming the tertiary education system in Russia in the period 2012-2019, the effect of the planner on the university board is shown. It is concluded that it is necessary to abolish indicators that distort scientific
activity.