Telling a More Credible Performance Story: Old Wine in New Bottles

Rocky J. Dwyer argues that a credible demonstration of public sector impacts depends on understanding the distinction between inputs, outputs, outcomes and indicators. The first aim of the paper is to provide an enhanced understanding of the current literature, reports and documentation on estimating the impacts and results of government programming and policies. Secondly, it shares the definitions and guidelines used to demonstrate economic impacts. Finally, it presents current best practices in measuring incremental impacts. All of which, Dwyer contends, provides new ways of approaching measurement and accountability that are more effective, strategic, comprehensive and credible to the public.

Abstract

A credible demonstration of policy or program impact depends on
understanding the distinction between inputs, outputs, outcomes, and indicators. Moreover, to be trusted by the public, performance reporting needs to focus more selectively on identifying the key measures of performance that will be recognized by stakeholders. The first aim of the article is to provide those involved in the practice of program evaluation with an enhanced understanding of the current literature, reports and documentation on estimating the impact and results of government programming and policies. Secondly, it shares the definitions and guidelines used to demonstrate economic impacts. Finally, it presents current
best practices in measuring incremental impact. All of which, we contend, provides program evaluation staff with new ways of approaching measurement and accountability that are more effective, strategic, comprehensive and credible to the public.

Dwyer Telling a More Credible Performance Story Old Wine in New Bottles