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Performance Management
Our performance management system was introduced in October 2000, its purpose being to ensure the council sets and achieves challenging targets in the services it provides. It was recognised by the District Audit as an example of notable practice, helping us to 'collect accurate, comprehensive and comparable data on performance, providing a good foundation from which to improve services'.
The system reflects the Government focus on the performance of local authorities through best value. Best value performance indicators (PIs) form the basis of the system and measure our performance against key criteria. It is a statutory duty to collect many of the PIs but we have also continued to develop our own PIs to focus on local priorities.
What is reported and to whom?
Performance is reported quarterly to Corporate Management Team and the Performance, Audit & Review Committee. Management teams within each directorate also review their performance on a monthly basis. Performance Improvement Officers are responsible for collating the performance results from across the three directorates. Feedback and information is available for all staff to access.
The latest performance figures 
How are targets set?
Some PIs have targets set at a national level by the Department for Communities and Local Government (formerly the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister). Where there are no national targets, we set our own, incorporating the following approaches:
- Look at performance to date and improve on the information available.
- Consult with managers responsible for that particular service area to set 'SMART' targets (i.e. specific, measurable, agreed, realistic and time-bound).
- Carry out comparative work.
- Liaise with user groups wherever possible.
The 'traffic light' approach
As well as reporting figures, performance against the PIs is shown using 'traffic lights' as follows:
| Green | The target has been met or exceeded | |
| Amber | Up to 15% below target | |
| Red | More than 15% below target |
Rescue recovery plans and commentary to accompany performance, be this good or poor, are provided by the appropriate directorate. This provides Corporate Management Team and councillors with information on corrective action that has been, or is going to be taken.
Methods of collection and the PIs collected will continue to be refined and reviewed throughout this year.
If you want to know more or have a comment to make please contact the Performance Team on tel. 01462 474000 or email service@north-herts.gov.uk