A study on performance measurement at the university of Nairobi

Abstract

This study explored the practises of Performance Measurement at the University of Nairobi. Focus was on three research questions: Why performance measurement? What measures? and forces impeding the design, implementation and use of performance measurement. Primary data was collected by the use of questionnaires distributed amongst 116 heads of departments and sections. Data collected was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. SPSS (11.5) and Microsoft excel software packages were used to conduct the analysis. Results indicate that most units have appreciated the need for performance measurement, but are in the initial stages of implementation. It emerged that the traditional purposes for performance measurement (control, planning and accountability) dominate the institutions intent. Forty-two measures were subjected to the study with respect to their importance to the institutions, and results indicate that the categorization of measures is far from definite, hence the need for more rigorous research. With respect to critical factors in the design, implementation and use of performance measurement at the university, results indicated that the institution has the requisite capacity to manage the process and evaluation, whereas lack of requisite support, management structures and systems, and culture greatly hinder meaningful progress in the evolution of performance measurement. Current study, though with some limitations in term of response and scope of study has served the purpose of initiating researching on performance measurement in an academic setup, which can be used as a basis for further study and benefit to the management of academic institutions.