Performance targets and public service improvement

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Boyne, George A.; Chen, Alex A.
• 署名单位: Cardiff University
• 刊物名称: JOURNAL OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION RESEARCH AND THEORY
• ISSN/ISSBN: 1053-1858
• DOI: 10.1093/jopart/mul007
• 发表日期: 2007
• 页码: 455-477
• 关键词: goal; management; GOVERNMENT; motivation; sector; IMPACT; heteroskedasticity; incentives; networks

摘要

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.