Implementation of a performance management system in the Limpopo Department of Public Works

Abstract

The Performance Management System (PMS) was introduced in the public sector in order to maximise optimal performance of public institutions. The aim was to ensure that public institutions deliver services to the public effectively and efficiently. The Limpopo Department of Public Works has received bad audit opinions from the Auditor General for the financial years 2011/12 to 2013/14. The Department received the following audit opinions: a disclaimer audit opinion for the financial year 2011/12, a disclaimer audit opinion for the financial year 2012/13 and a qualified audit opinion for the financial year 2013/14. The study sought to investigate the manner in which PMS was being implemented in the Limpopo Department of Public Works. A literature review, undertaken in this study shows that there are challenges in implementing the PMS in the public sector, that there is inadequate general understanding of the PMS and that there is no adequate training provided. Data was collected through questionnaires and documentary sources of annual performance plans and annual reports for the financial years 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14. The responses collected from the questionnaires mainly indicate that the PMS is not adequately understood in the Department. The annual performance plans and annual reports of the Limpopo Department of Public Works for the financial years 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14 indicate that the Department did not achieve even 50% of its targets in the core directorates. Further findings in the study indicate that the implementation of the PMS has not impacted positively on the performance of the Department. Recommendations made in the study include providing training linked to the PMS to all employees. Other recommendations include the communication of the departmental targets to employees at all levels.