Performance Targets and Public Service Improvement
Posted: 9 Jul 2008
Date Written: July 2007
Abstract
Theories of rational planning suggest that organizational performance improves if targets for future achievements are set. We test this proposition using panel data for 147 English local education authorities between 1998 and 2003. The dependent variables in the analysis are exam results for school pupils. We find that, controlling for other variables, the extent of performance improvement is influenced positively by the presence of a target. Thus, the results are consistent with the view that clear and quantified strategic priorities lead to better organizational outcomes.
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
Boyne, George and Chen, Alex A., Performance Targets and Public Service Improvement (July 2007). Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory, Vol. 17, Issue 3, pp. 455-477, 2007, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1157227 or http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/jopart/mul007
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