Abstract
The use of 'outcomes' as a concept to measure the effectiveness of social policy interventions is inherently flawed and creates unwelcome paradoxes. This article explains why, instead of improving the lives of those who receive support, a focus on outcome information distorts both the priorities and practice of organizations who deliver such support, resulting in poorer results for those most in need. It provides an important first stage towards the evolution of new ways of conceptualizing ways to create improvements in social policy delivery.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 213-216 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Public Money and Management |
Volume | 33 |
Issue number | 3 |
Early online date | 5 Apr 2013 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 May 2013 |
Keywords
- outcomes
- Payment by results
- performance management