Concise Introduction to Performance Management

Elgar Concise Introductions

Mike Bourne, Professor of Business Performance and Pippa Bourne, Visiting Fellow, Cranfield University, UK

This Concise Introduction describes current approaches to measuring and managing performance in organisations and offers insights into how they may need to evolve as the working environment changes. It demonstrates the need to see performance management in the context of the culture and leadership of the organisation and not as a standalone activity.

‘Having known Mike and Pippa for many years, between them they have several decades of experience in practising and researching performance measurement. In this book, they provide a no frills, complete and concise introduction to the subject of measuring and managing organisational performance, which would be invaluable to the practitioner. Highly recommended.’
– Umit Bititci, Heriot-Watt University, UK

‘A brilliant guide for leaders and managers wanting to design and use meaningful performance measures. It covers all the essentials, the traps to avoid and the critical role of culture, brought to life with fitting examples and metaphors. “An organisation is like an orchestra. Every part of it plays a vital role in its success”. This book provides the score.’
– Elizabeth Honer, Chief Executive, Government Internal Audit Agency, UK

‘Mike and Pippa have written an important and valuable reference for busy executives and managers who want to quickly absorb the key components and characteristics of good performance measurement, including the “watch-outs” of what not to do. Their approach to presenting the subject is very helpful for understanding, with clear definitions and explanations of ideas, and being one of those rarer written guides that is both comprehensive and succinct. It is excellently researched, describing pragmatic and practical approaches to achieving joined-up performance measurement. Mike and Pippa present well the subtleties that have to be considered when target setting and when making performance measurement work well for the organisation, and the book contains invaluable guidance on how to encourage success.’
——马克·贝克Cranfield School of Management, UK

‘This essential book offers a wealth of perceptive and pragmatic insights presented in an accessible and compelling style. Whether you are a board member, entrepreneur, executive, academic or learner, you will gain invaluable wisdom from its pages. The guidance on establishing a common purpose and fostering a conducive culture is indispensable.’
– Dan Stull, University of Washington, US