ICMA Results Networks / Performance Measurement / About / How We Measure

How We Measure

The Center for Performance Measurement data collection templates have been developed and refined over the years by city/county managers, department heads, and other service area specialists from the participating jurisdictions.

CPM offers electronic tools that allow participants to review the performance and their peers and develop customized comparisons based on population, climate, service provision method, and other characteristics.

Annual updates have provided for precise definitions and adaptation to changed tasks or technology, while at the same time maintaining the continuity necessary for year to year comparison.

 The Center for Performance Measurement:

  • Defines indicators of effective service delivery.
  • Collects "apples-to-apples" comparative data from participating jurisdictions on these indicators and gives participants access to the full data sets.
  • Ensures a consistent set of data definitions among participating jurisdictions (as developed by participating jurisdictions).
  • Employs a rigorous data-cleaning process to ensure the integrity of the data and other information (using both computer models and ICMA staff review and oversight).
  • Facilitates analysis and discussions among program participants to determine the management practices key to communities in which data indicate high performance. This is accomplished via Web-based discussions on the private portion of the CPM Web site as well as face-to-face discussions among participating jurisdictions.
  • Collects "best practices/effective practices" as to the ways in which jurisdictions are using the data in their budgeting as well as financial/program planning processes.