Performance management systems implementation challenges in South African municipalities : the case of Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality

Abstract

In the accomplishment of good governance South African municipalities need to develop measurable objectives related to performance measures and targets that capture strategically important aspects of performance. This allows performance to be easily monitored and aligned with municipal Integrated Development Plans (IDPs). Performance information should be used in conjunction with strategic planning, budgeting, policy analysis and evaluations, organisational reviews and performance appraisals for the managers. This is necessary in order to improve performance and for assuring the public that they are receiving value for money. A Performance Management System (PMS) is the principal management mechanism intended to determine outcomes and impact of municipal service delivery on the communities they are commissioned by legislation to service. The PMS measures should always be relevant, meaningful and informative to political and administrative decision-makers. The data gathered from the PMS should be presented in a balanced, comprehensive and credible manner. The aim of this study is to analyse the challenges that influence the implementation of the local government PMS in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality. The analysis entails identifying the challenges, evaluating them and then suggesting possible solutions to the challenges.