The DSP environment, however, has additional complications when analyzing organizational efficiency and resource allocation. Since DSPs deal in human services, inputs are somewhat subjective. It is inadequate to measure size of caseload or hours worked, for instance, since these measures do not reflect the objective quality of the input. DSPs produce outcomes that are not easily quantifiable outputs. Measurement of outcomes is highly subjective, since a client's progress is measured relative to himself over time.
Standardization is therefore difficult.
Furthermore, outcomes often manifest themselves over long periods of time. Recidivism and long-term effects can be too far removed to be observable. The transition of inputs into outputs is also difficult to track in DSPs. A business performs transactions that clearly contribute to its financial standing. These transactions can be replicated in a way that contributes to auditability.