Over the past decade, the use of performance data and measurement tools has exploded across all layers of government – from the federal tracking of social benefits to states closely monitoring child protective services to cities filling potholes. Performance measurement is now recognized as a very powerful management tool. 

Recognizing this trend, The Council of State Governments, along with the Urban Institute, has created the first-ever State Comparative Performance Measurement Project. Funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, this national initiative seeks to collect, analyze and publish comparative performance data so states can better set reachable targets for their services as well as identify successful state practices.

This project is guided by a steering committee consisting of state government and citizen representatives.  In late 2007, this group selected transportation and human services as the two pilot areas on which this project will initially focus.  Throughout the remainder of 2008, CSG will be collecting data for these two areas.

To learn more about this project, click on any of the links above.  If you would like find out how your state can participate, please contact CSG Senior Project Coordinator Jennifer Burnett by phone, 859-244-8114, or by e-mail.