Performance Imperative

This course will examine the role of performance management within public organizations (government and nonprofit), including why measuring and managing performance is critically valuable to high-functioning organizations' success. With the increasing pressures on nonprofit and government organizations to continue to produce more with less, performance management systems are becoming a staple within organizations looking to drive better outcomes for their constituents. The goal of a highly functioning performance management system within a public organization is to establish a system of continuous monitoring designed to routinely measure specific quantitative and qualitative indicators in real-time- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) - in order to improve the organization's ability to achieve specific outcomes through continuous improvement and timely, data-based decision-making.

This course will use a diversity of course materials, including real-life examples and case studies to: (a) demonstrate how organizations have successfully implemented performance management systems, (b) indicate the importance of using real-time, valid and reliable data, and linking performance results with effective budget resource allocation (e.g., program and outcome-based budgeting) and constituent satisfaction, and (c) explore practices on how to best protect valuable aspects of performance management systems despite changes in leadership.

This is a "hybrid" course, with synchronous, online meetings and once-monthly, on-campus meetings in Philadelphia, PA. Also, please note there is an additional $150 online course fee.