Is Performance Measurement Applicable in the Public Sector? A Comparative Study of Attitudes among Dutch Officials

Abstract

This article aims to study whether in the opinion of officials themselves, performance measurement can easily be applied in the public sector, and by what factors the differences in their views can be explained. Data from a survey of 26,876 civil servants were used. Among officials meeting certain criteria to be discussed, the majority are positive about the applicability of performance measurement. We conclude that supporters of the application of performance measures in their work are likely to see this as a tool that can be used to their own advantage, and which is in the interest of their organization.

Keywords:

• public sector
• officials
• performance measurement
• opinions
• survey