A normative framework for analysing the training needs of local government managers in implementing performance management systems

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT:Recent developments in legislation pertaining to local government in SouthAfrica depict performance management as a means to enable localgovernment managers to actively plan, manage and measure theperformance of the organisation. In order to ensure the implementation ofperformance management, local governments are required to develop andadopt an integrated performance managements system, which should consistof seven elements, namely performance planning; a framework forperformance management; key performance indicators and targets; sharedresponsibility for performance; performance monitoring and measurement;performance review and reports; and performance improvement. However,the successful implementation of the performance management system isdependent on the availability of competent managers that possess thenecessary knowledge, skills and abilities to implement and manage theperformance management system. Performance management training is seenas a fast and effective way to ensure the obtainment of competent managersto implement the performance management. However, to ensure that trainingprogrammes address the most critical needs in a cost-effective manner,training should be preceded by a comprehensive training needs assessment.This research aims to development a normative framework developed in thisresearch, describing several knowledge elements, skills and abilitiesnecessary for effective performance management, upon which a formaltraining needs assessment for local government managers may be based.Recommendations are also made pertaining to the development ofperformance management training activities to ensure the development ofperformance management capacity under local government managers.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University