ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the importance of adapting assessment processes to fit the language and culture of the organization, including recommendations for language and criteria suited to the public sector. It begins with descriptions of performance measurement and assessment programs in government. The chapter reviews the scope of public sector assessment programs that have developed in the Baldrige model and how they are applied at various levels of government. It discusses the importance of learning from other sectors where there are commonalities and of adapting existing models to address differences. The chapter presents types of assessment processes in government: audit and accreditation processes which include: internal audits, external audits, and accreditation programs; and performance measurement processes which include: Government Performance and Results Act, Performance Assessment Rating Tool. A number of different programs have been designed to provide a comprehensive view of the overall performance of government agencies as organizations.
