Case #1554.0

The Oregon Benchmarks Program: The Challenge of Restoring Political Support

Publication Date: January 10, 2000
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Abstract:
The concept of "benchmarking" as applied to the public sector, seeks to use quantitative measures and comparison over time to encourage progress toward social and efficiency goals. This case describes the origin and implementation of one of the most ambitious benchmarking efforts in the U.S. It follows the program from a period of initial enthusiasm to legislative disillusion--and the efforts of a new program director to redirect and re-energize the effort. Broadly, it raises the question of what sorts of public goals are well-suited to the benchmarking process and how public agencies respond to it. Pair with the case sequel (HKS846).

Learning Objective:
This case describes the origin and implementation of one of the most ambitious benchmarking efforts in the U.S. It follows the program from a period of initial enthusiasm to legislative disillusion--and the efforts of a new program director to redirect and re-energize the effort. Broadly, it raises the question of what sorts of public goals are well-suited to the benchmarking process and how public agencies respond to it.

Other Details

Teaching Plan:
Available with Educator Access
Case Author:
Pamela Varley
Faculty Lead:
Steven Kelman
Pages (incl. exhibits):
25
Setting:
United States
Language:
English