Exploring the Shift from Output Measures to Outcome Measures of Service Delivery: Insights from Municipal Research

Abstract

Prior research shows that reporting on outcome measures increases the probability that local officials will use performance data to inform their decisions. What has been overlooked in the literature is the question of why some local governments continue to focus more on outputs than on outcomes of service delivery, thereby limiting their ability to use performance data for decision-making. The purpose of this article is to identify organizational, individual, and support factors that could increase the probability that local officials in the Apulia Region of Italy when measuring performance, will move beyond the basic measures of output to the more advanced measures of outcome. Based on our logit regression model, we find that the factors of quantifiable objectives and employee training increase the likelihood that local officials will report on service delivery outcomes. An implication resulting from our research is the importance of giving local officials access to academic communities through applied research, technical assistance, and training sessions. We conclude with future research opportunities that would help advance the study and practice of performance measurement in local government.

Keywords:

• local government
• performance measurement
• performance management
• outcome measures

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Roberta Fasiello

Roberta Fasiello is an associate professor in the Department of Scienze dell’Economia at the University of Salento, specializing in financial accounting and performance management. She has authored three books and has published them in numerous academic journals.

William C. Rivenbark

William C. Rivenbark is a professor in the School of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, specializing in performance and financial management. He has co-authored two books and has published them in numerous academic journals.

Carmine Bianchi

Carmine Bianchi is a professor of public management in the Department of Political Science at the University of Palermo, specializing in the design of outcome-based, dynamic performance management. He has authored numerous books and has published them in numerous academic journals.