Key Terms

Last Updated: Tuesday, 27 May 2008

The following are key terms related to the content in this website.

Performance Measurement

Performance measurement is a systematic management tool rapidly increasing in its use and sophistication. It is a dynamic tool that can be utilized by local, state and federal government across a diverse range of service areas. Performance measurement addresses indicators of productivity, effectiveness, service quality, and timeliness. Overall, the aim of performance measurement is to inform management decisions.

Results-Oriented Management

This management approach is geared toward maximizing the results of government programs and services. To this aim, efforts are coordinated across government projects and programs to ensure that goals are consistent and program efforts are mutually reinforcing. In addition to this internal coordination and alignment, this approach includes reaching beyond organizational boundaries and coordinating with other public agencies or non-profit organizations to foster effective strategies and results.

Performance Reporting

Performance reporting summarizes information on an organization's performance results in comparison to the organization's previously stated targets. This information may be provided in comparison to previous year's performance, specific standards, or may be benchmarked across other performance efforts. Performance reports should be accessible to the reader and include key information such as the function of the organization, accomplishment in reaching targets, input and output measures, and helpful explanatory information.

Citizen-driven Performance Measurement

Citizen-driven Performance Measurement incorporates citizens' views and opinions into the performance measurement process. Citizen involvement in performance measurement helps to ensure that information being gathered and reported upon is what matters to citizens. Citizen perspectives may be drawn from a variety of sources including various types of public deliberation forums, citizen surveys, or hands-on citizen activities. Citizen participation in performance efforts can be realized throughout the entire process of performance measurement and provide an opportunity for collaboration between citizens and government.