Develop a good understanding of the performance-based approach

The performance-based approach is a decision-making method based on three principles:

-      strong focus on desired/required results through adoption of performance objectives and targets;

-      informed decision-making driven by those desired/required results; and

-      reliance on facts and data for decision-making.

Strong focus on desired/ required results through adoption of performance objectives and targets

      Having strong focus on desired/required results through adoption of performance objectives and targets requires:

•      Determining the current performance situation;
•      Determining the most appropriate/ desired results;
•      Clarifying who is accountable for achieving these results

Informed decision-making driven by those desired/required results

Informed decision making requires decision makers to develop a good understanding of the mechanisms which explains how drivers, constraints, shortcomings, options and opportunities influence the achievement of the required results.

Reliance on facts and data for decision-making

In the performance-based approach the required results as well as drivers, constraints, shortcomings, options and opportunities are expressed in quantitative terms and in a qualitative way

The rationale being unless you measure something you don’t know if it is improving or not

When facts and data should be relevant and reflect reality.  This requires adoption of a performance measurement culture and it necessitates associated investments in data collection and management