Simplified Reporting

Printer-friendly version

Consultation on Generic Output Measures

The Department of Communities has developed a set of generic output measures to gather consistent information on the level and type of funded service delivery across the state. These new measures form part of a broader strategy to make it easier for funded services to report on service delivery.

Consultation is currently being undertaken by the department to gather feedback and comments on the usefulness of the generic output measures and the clarity of the supporting counting rules, definitions and examples. The measures are also being trialled in service agreements to enable feedback in a practical context.

Review of performance measures

In 2006 and 2007 there was a user testing period of draft output measures. During this period, funded services submitting periodic performance reports had the opportunity to provide feedback on the draft measures. Feedback from services generally had common themes, which also aligned with recommendations from the Queensland Audit Office, the Service Delivery and Performance Commission and the Public Accounts Committee. Feedback and recommendations highlighted that:

• reporting measures were too onerous
• too many measures could mean the same thing
• definitions and counting rules were not clear
• the measures did not tell the whole story
• there was a general lack of confidence that the reports were being used. 

Development of generic output measures

Based on the feedback and recommendations the department has moved to:

• a set of 15 generic output measures, consistent across all programs (only some are relevant to each program initiative)
• a small set of program specific measures to capture specific program requirements
• a reduction in the number of measures that most services will be required to report against
• consistent definition, counting rules and examples across all programs
• reduced reporting frequency for services with funding less than $100 000 and low risk
• electronic reporting through the Online Acquittal Support Information System (OASIS). 

The generic output measures are not designed to measure every aspect or activity of the service but to provide an overview of the nature and level of service delivery provided with departmental funds. 

It is suggested that any additional activities can be reported to the department’s regional office and for some services this has already been an effective strategy.

For the purpose of consultation, the generic measures have been presented in table form. Additional tables are available by program area and show which generic measures apply and any initiative specific measures.

The following documents outline the proposed changes to generic output measures. Please review and comment via the survey link below.

1. Master spreadsheet of generic measures over all programs
2. Seniors
3. Individual Support
4. Public Intoxication
5. Family Support
6. Community Support and Sector Development
7. Youth Justice Program
8. Youth Support Program
9. Youth Development and Leadership Program
10. Domestic and Family Violence Prevention and Support Services
11. Homelessness (development statement)

Other documents

12. Detailed list of NCCS subgroups for generic measures