Performance

Definition

The performance evaluates the quality of the management. The performance is the ultimate result from all the efforts of an individual, a team, an institution, etc. to do the right things in the right way, in order to produce the good results expected, and, by doing so, to achieve the objectives set.

The performance has become today a key component of the competitiveness imposed by the current globalisation.

Performance measure

Quite often, quantifiable indicators are being used to assess the success of scientists and scientific institutions. This system should go far beyond the counting of publications. It should balance qualitative with quantitative indicators.

Qualitative indicators

• Understanding of the problem and its importance
  • Inclusion of appropriate scientific citations to demonstrate awareness of the problem and the potential contribution of the proposed research to the community.
• Quality and technical merit
  • Awareness of the state of current research or technology.
  • Soundness of methodology and technical approach.
  • Feasibility of proposed project and awareness of pitfalls.
  • Innovation and creativity (when appropriate).
• Impact of the proposed project
  • Potential for significant advances in scientific or technical understanding of the problem.
  • Potential for significant advances in the field.
  • Perceived potential for implementation of a new technology (when applicable).
• Capabilities and experience
  • Qualifications and experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage the effort.
  • Adequacy of the plan to manage the project, including how various tasks are subdivided and resources are used.
  • Successful past performance on grants and contracts (when applicable).
• Budget
  • Total cost of the project relative to the perceived benefit.
  • Appropriateness of the budget relative to the level of effort.
  • Use of existing resources to conserve costs.
• Dissemination strategy
  • A well-defined plan to disseminate results to appropriate stakeholders.