A Survey of the Performance Measurement by International Humanitarian Organizations for Their Programmes and Operations in Somalia

Abstract

According to Norton and Robert [2004], performance management is the process of using performance measurement information such as performance goals/objectives, measure, measurement, output and outcome evaluation to effect positive organizational changes. This study/survey sought to address and focus on the performance measurement of International Humanitarian Organizations [HOs] and International Non-Govemmental Organizations [INGOs] based in Somalia apply in their programmes and operations. The objective of the study being to establish Performance Measurement Systems [PMSs] employed by the International organizations for their operations and programmes in Somalia. The study population consisted of all the international humanitarian organizations domiciled with Somalia and as listed in the Somalia Aid Coordination Body [SACB] directory of the year 2005. Primary data was collected through use of questionnaires and was analyzed using descriptive means and interpreted using the SPSS version 12.0 software. Secondary data was also obtained from the University of Nairobi Library and the United Nations Library at Gigiri Nairobi. The survey indicated that majority of the HOs based in Somalia did have a PMS or a method used to measure their operations and programmes. Monitoring and Evaluation [M&E] at 91.7%, Activity Based Costing at 50%, Strategic Measurement & Review Technique at 50% were the most used methods as system of performance by HOs in Somalia. However it was noted that other methods such as Balanced Scorecard, Performance Prism and Performance Pyramid that are both financial and non-financial oriented systems were not used much the later two not being mentioned at all and they take into consideration stakeholders' satisfactions and opinion. It is hoped that, modem and new PMSs will be embraced by the HOs when managing performance in all circumstances.