CGIAR Launches Pilot Performance Measurement System

Worldwide there is a growing trend toward greater accountability, transparency, performance and service delivery in private and public sector organizations. As a strategic knowledge-for-development alliance, CGIAR is following suit with a custom-designed performance measurement (PM) system to fit its unique business context. The indicators chosen are grouped into eight performance elements (see Box).

The PM system was developed by an Executive Council working group, with inputs from CGIAR Centers, Center Boards, Science Council, Members, Secretariat and System Office units. The system is based largely on self-assessment by Centers and is being piloted using 2004 data. The initiative is a work in progress and the system will be enhanced as we learn from the pilot program.

The PM system is expected to serve as a tool for improved decision-making and managing performance for impact.