A successful strategic planning process builds in accountability for results. Performance measures are the tools used to measure performance and evaluate progress on the strategic plan. The Arizona budget reform legislation requires that performance measures be established for the agency and its programs and subprograms, such as the University of Arizona Library. Measuring performance means setting performance expectations, comparing actual performance with benchmarking data and continuously improving processes. Most staff members want to do a good job.
Performance measurement helps the teams and staff members focus on what is important.
By comparing actual with expected results, it enables the staff to evaluate progress towards goals and objectives. Good performance measures have the following characteristics. There are many reasons to use performance measures. Performance measures inform the staff of customer needs and levels of satisfaction. They make it possible to identify actions to improve quality and reduce costs.