Performance management system as a tool for promoting effective waste control : the case of Emfuleni Local Municipality

Abstract

This study aimed at evaluating the degree to which Performance Management System is being executed at Waste Management Unit within the Emfuleni Local Municipality hence the topic “Performance Management System as a tool for promoting effective waste control: The case of the Emfuleni Local Municipality.” The Performance Management System issues a structure for establishing development needs, determining suitable resources, and making the recommendations regarding suitable PMS of which managers in an accountable manner can utilize to enable the Waste Management Unit to be economical, effective and efficient in its actions. In order to weigh up the scope of service delivery to the communities, and to evaluate whether the objectives of Waste Management Unit at ELM are being accomplished, the entire municipality should be compelled to execute performance management for all members of staff as stipulated by Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 and Municipal Planning and Performance Management Regulations, 2001. This study starts by introducing the subject of performance management system, briefly discussing introductory orientation and background rationale, problem statements, research methods and literature review. Subsequent to introduction of the study are the international perspectives on efficient performance management and an overview of performance management in the Waste Management Unit at Emfuleni Local Municipality. Thereafter the discussion on empirical research, findings and recommendations will serve as the last three chapters. Findings uncovered amongst others, include; the lack of knowledge of PMS amongst Waste Management Unit employees at lower level ranks. No PMS is applied at Waste Management Unit and as the result job descriptions are used as measuring stick of performance. Individual performance at Waste Management Unit is never discussed with the employees. No training of development programmes for employees at WMU to improve their performance. Findings from views of the community in terms of the performance reveal that there is no communication between the community and the Waste Management Unit in terms waste collection issues and its performance. Chapter five of the research assesses each objective in terms of questionnaire responses, interviews and literature study. The assessment of information in chapter five offers the basis for drawing up recommendations. The findings and recommendations in Chapter 6 provide solutions to the research problem. It is anticipated that the outcomes of this research would provide strategic value for ELM as a whole and Waste Management Unit in particular.