Advancing local governance: a systematic review of performance management systems

Abstract

Effective performance management in local governments has become increasingly vital due to rising demands for efficiency, accountability, and service quality. This study analyzes key trends in performance management systems (PMS) through a systematic literature review of 122 studies published between 2000 and 2023, with the assessment highlighting the impacts of New Public Management (NPM) principles and technological advances from 2000 to 2015 and the transition to newer governance models post-2015. All reviewed articles were selected from the Scopus database. Regional analysis results reveal varying trends worldwide, with North America showing high PMS maturity with a focus on performance data and public engagement. Meanwhile, the research focus in Europe varies from benchmarking in the UK to organizational culture in Italy. Studies in Asia concentrate on policy in China and benchmarking in Malaysia, while those in Oceania emphasize organizational factors in Australia and New Zealand. Furthermore, PMS development in Africa and South America is still in its early stages. This study introduces the IMPACT framework as a strategic response to address PMS challenges. Further studies are strongly advised to validate this framework across diverse contexts.

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