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The use and efficacy of anecdotal performance reporting in the third sector

Author

Listed:
  • Richard Greatbanks
  • Graham Elkin
  • Graham Manville

Abstract

Purpose - This research paper seeks to examine the important issues of performance measurement and reporting in a third sector community organisation. It aims to highlight the dysfunctional nature of funding body performance reporting criteria, which do not always align with the values and goals of the voluntary organisation. In contrast, this paper aims to consider the value of using anecdotal performance data to provide a more informed perspective on the performance of third sector organisations. Design/methodology/approach - The paper examines the current literature regarding performance measurement from a voluntary sector perspective. It then considers the value and efficacy of anecdotal performance reporting and presents empirical findings from a single case study organisation. Findings - The paper identifies that many forms of performance reporting frameworks used by funding bodies provide little or no value to the voluntary organisation, and that anecdotal performance reporting is often more aligned with the values of the voluntary organisation. This paper proposes that whilst anecdotal performance reporting is not common place, it has an inherent value to both a third sector organisation, and funding body, as it allows the organisation's achievements to be presented in a more empathic light. The paper concludes that anecdotal performance reporting is particularly appropriate where the funding body is of a philanthropic, rather than government or state nature. Research limitations/implications - This research was conducted from the perspective of one voluntary sector organisation, therefore providing limited generalizability. Originality/value - With little research undertaken on the value of anecdotal performance reporting in this environment, this paper highlights a potential new area of performance measurement. This research is set within a New Zealand context, adding to the originality.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard Greatbanks & Graham Elkin & Graham Manville, 2010. "The use and efficacy of anecdotal performance reporting in the third sector," International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 59(6), pages 571-585, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:eme:ijppmp:v:59:y:2010:i:6:p:571-585
    DOI: 10.1108/17410401011063957
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Rebekah Schulz & Andrew Sense & Matthew Pepper, 2021. "Apprehending and Embedding Customer Expectations in the Collaborative Development of Performance Indicators," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 34(1), pages 71-90, February.
    2. Francis Amagoh, 2015. "Improving the credibility and effectiveness of non-governmental organizations," Progress in Development Studies, , vol. 15(3), pages 221-239, July.
    3. Rebekah Schulz & Andrew Sense & Matthew Pepper, 2021. "Combining Participative Action Research with an Adapted House of Quality Framework for the Stakeholder Development of Performance Indicators in Local Government," Systemic Practice and Action Research, Springer, vol. 34(3), pages 307-330, June.

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