Successful Implementation of Results-based Management Programs : A Menu For Action

Over the last two decades, countries across the world have shifted from an input-driven management system to one that focuses on outputs and outcomes. Lessons learned from OECD countries such as Canada, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States indicate that this shift is resulting in more efficient and effective government spending and greater realization of national planning goals. By focusing on outcomes, planners and policy makers are asking the - So what? question. So what if 1,000 new kilometers of roads have been built, or that 500 teachers have been hired? What is the relationship of these outputs to new markets or better learning outcomes for students? A results-based orientation to government management is an important tool to help systematically assess how well projects, programs, and policies are being implemented to achieve desired outcomes.