Summary of Report 96-052

Report #: 96-052

Overall Conclusion

Reliability of performance measure reporting has improved slightly. Controls over the collection and reporting of performance measure data have been strengthened. However, weak controls at some agencies have resulted in unreliable data. As a result, a significant amount of key performance information cannot be relied upon by decision makers. Recommended improvements should further enhance performance measurement system reliability.

Key Facts and Findings

Approximately 54 percent of the 105 performance measures reviewed at 21 agencies and one educational institution were determined to be reliable. About 25 percent of the measures were inaccurate and factors prevented certification of the remaining 21 percent.The agency results represent a ten percent improvement in reliability over the most recent performance measure audit. Improved controls over the collection and reporting of performance measure data was the primary reason for improvement.Although controls have improved, significant weaknesses continue to prevent a higher reliability rate. Inadequate source documentation, failure to follow measure definitions, calculation errors, and a lack of supervisory reviews were the primary weaknesses remaining at the agencies.Assistance was provided to agencies with serious performance measurement system weaknesses. The Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse and the Department on Aging received detailed recommendations to improve performance reporting.Current audit results indicate a significant improvement in performance reporting reliability at the Texas Department of Insurance. The improvement was the result of a comprehensive plan implemented after prior audit results indicated that fiscal year 1995 performance data was unreliable.

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