PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT ~ Introduction

Introduction

Performance improvement is a critical piece of the NPHPSP activities and is highlighted in the stated mission and goals of the program. If the results of the assessments are not used for action planning and performance improvement, then the hard work of the assessments will not have its intended impact.

Performance improvement is shown through positive change in capacity, process and outcomes of public health as practiced in government, private, and voluntary sector organizations. Performance improvement can occur system-wide as well as within individual organizations that are part of the public health system. It involves strategic changes to address public health system (or organizational) weaknesses and the use of evidence to inform decision-making.

Performance improvement can be achieved through the practice of "performance management." As defined by the Turning Point Performance Management Collaborative, performance management is the practice of actively using performance data to improve the public's health. This practice involves the strategic use of performance measures and standards to establish performance targets and goals, to prioritize and allocate resources, to inform managers about needed adjustments or changes in policy or program directions to meet goals, to frame reports on the success in meeting performance goals, and to improve the quality of public health practice.

Therefore, performance improvement is what systems and organizations should strive to achieve; performance management is how it can be done.

This information and the following links provide sites that are using the NPHPSP assessments with guidance and resources for this important activity.