The error of limiting focus to only the attributable June 8, 2009
Posted by Paul Duignan in : Outcomes systems architecture, Attribution, Reporting systems, Indicators, Accountability, Using the approach, Measurement, Easy Outcomes , trackbackI am continuing to develop a set of articles which outline various problems which are often built into the outcomes systems which I see. The one I have just put up is on the Error of Limiting Focus to Only the Attributable. This is where the whole emphasis of a performance management or other outcomes system is just on holding a provider to account for a list of demonstrably attributable indicators (often called outputs, deliverables, or key performance indicators). This often creates problems.The solution is to build a system which includes all elements of the five building-blocks of performance management and outcomes systems. Such systems can be build using the applied Easy Outcomes approach. Obviously, within such a system holding providers to account for attributable indicators will be included, but it will not be the exclusive focus of the system.
In regard to particular programs, if they are embedded in a wider outcomes system, it may be appropriate to just hold them to account for demonstrably attributable indicators because the rest of the system in which they are located includes elements from the five building-blocks. Anyway, check out the article and post come comments at the bottom of it.
Duignan, P. (2009). The error of limiting focus to only the attributable. Outcomes Theory Knowledge Base Article No. 246. (http://knol.google.com/k/paul-duignan-phd/the-error-of-limiting-action-to-only/2m7zd68aaz774/103).
PaulDuignan, PhD
Outcomes and Evaluation Blog (OutcomesBlog.org)
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