What is Performance Measurement?
For the purposes of this course, performance measurement is the evaluation of a task against a goal. We have also identified a preemptive approach to performance measurement-- the use of what we call the performance intervention checklist. The checklist allows you to identify managerial tasks and activities that ensure an objective or goal can indeed be completed satisfactorily. Alternatively, managers can use the checklist to identify what is missing for an employee with regard to a task.
Goals and the Balanced Scorecard
Goals are the deliverables (with attached metrics) an employee completes as a part of her job or a project. We strongly believe that when applied to a person's job, the goals should align to the overll business strategy and be balanced. Balanced means that the goals cover multiple categories such as finance, customer, quality, and team.
Performance Interventions Instead
As mentioned, one highly effective way to measure performance is to view every task, activity, or goal through the lens of a series of performance interventions. Each activity can only be delivered effectively if certain managerial tools and resources are in place or have occured. We categorize these responsibilities into four boxes.
- Communication
- Training
- Motivation
- Resources & Tools
You can either use the checklist after a performance failure to identify which intervention was missing, or you can use it preemptively to ensure you have done all you can enabling the employee to succeed.