The implementation of the performance frameworks in 2014-2020 ESI Funds : final report

The performance framework (PF) and performance reserve have been included as compulsory elements in programmes in the 2014-2020 programming period of the European Structural and Investment (ESI) Funds in order to ensure that programmes are kept on track to achieve their objectives and that progress can be adequately measured. This report provides a synthesis covering the manner in which the provisions relating to the PF and the performance reserve are reflected in all Partnership Agreements (PA), operational programmes (OP) under the Investment for Growth and Jobs Goal (IGJ) financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Cohesion Fund (CF), including multi-fund programmes co-financed by the European Social Fund (ESF), and the European Territorial Cooperation (ETC) programmes financed by the ERDF. The study is based on 60 interviews, desk research and additional information provided, a focus group with representatives from the European Commission and a web-survey. This final report analyses and assesses the processes for the establishment of the PF, how PFs have been designed (i.e. the indicators used for milestones and targets), the establishment of the performance reserve, and the strengths and weaknesses of the PF and performance reserve. The findings show that the PF is overall helpful in focussing programmes and contributing to a results-oriented approach. However, while there are clear benefits from the PF, there are also a number of caveats and challenges emerging from the analysis.