Performance measures justify the cost of collecting and retaining data. To the extent possible, performance measures are streamlined to utilize existing data sources, reduce data collection burdens, and avoid asking for information that can be obtained from another source. Performance measures are reliable so that when the same measure is used in the same circumstances, it will obtain the same results. Performance measures are valid so that they actually measure what they are supposed to be measuring rather than something else. Performance measures provide information to program managers in a timely manner and emphasize aspects of performance that are under management control.
Performance measures inform evaluative, planning, and policy decisions.
Workforce development service delivery staff are able to see a clear link between what they do and how performance is measured. A customer is able to understand why each element of data is collected and see the value of sharing that information. Performance measures promote continuous improvement.