The next step is identifying relevant performance indicators (also called performance measures) for each desired result. A performance indicator:
- Answers the question, “How will we know success when we see it?”
- Is an observable or measurable characteristic that shows the extent to which the intended result is being achieved.
- Helps clarify what we mean specifically by each results statement.
- Is a way of starting fact-based conversations about agency, program, or project performance.
- Is a tool to help managers lead and manage better.
Examples:
| Results Statement
|
Performance Indicator
|
| 1. Children protected from communicable disease | Percentage of children entering kindergarten fully vaccinated per ACIP recommendations |
| 2. Cases of foodborne illness reduced | Number of laboratory-confirmed cases of foodborne illness |
| 3. Agency financial stability improved | Percentage of annual revenue derived from non-grant sources |
Once indicators are identified, it’s time to determine a baseline (status when we started) and set a target (where we want to be) for each.
Example (Immunizations):
- Baseline: 75% of children entering kindergarten this school year were up to date with vaccines per ACIP recommendations.
- Target: 90% of children entering kindergarten next school year will be up to date with vaccines per ACIP recommendations.
Example (Food Safety):
- Baseline: 150 cases of laboratory-confirmed foodborne illness last calendar year.
- Target: Reduce number of laboratory-confirmed foodborne illnesses by 10% (to 135) within the next calendar year.
Example (Financial stability):
- Baseline: 5% of agency funding came from non-grant sources in 2015.
- Target: 15% of agency funding will come from non-grant sources by 2020.
Tools:
- Download a results framework following the examples above here.
- Download a blank results framework template here.
Next: Step 3 – Planning for data collection to measure progress.