A framework to assess performance measurement systems in SMEs

Paola Cocca and Marco Alberti

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, 2010, vol. 59, issue 2, 186-200

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework that small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) can use to assess their performance measurement system (PMS) in order to identify the main weaknesses and take corrective measures. Design/methodology/approach - Starting from a review of the recommendations provided in literature regarding performance measurement in companies, a list of general characteristics of a “good” PMS is defined. The identified PMS general features are then tailored to SME needs through an analysis of the characteristics of SMEs and a survey of their performance measurement current practice. Finally all the requirements are included in a framework designed to support SMEs in critically reviewing their PMS and enabling its effective use. Findings - The main characteristics of SMEs are reviewed and classified; the general characteristics of a “good” PMS are collected from the literature and then adapted to the SME context, thus obtaining a list of PMS requirements for SMEs; moreover a tool for PMS self‐assessment is developed. Research limitations/implications - Research is still at an early stage and applications of the tool in real settings will offer the possibility to refine and validate it. Practical implications - The tool proposed codifies best practices and makes them accessible by SMEs in a simple way, thus supporting companies in the process of continuous improvement of their PMS. Originality/value - The field of performance measurement in SMEs is an emergent area of study. The paper highlights the necessity of PMS assessment instruments suitable for SMEs and defines a new tool starting from the analysis of SME needs and characteristics.

Keywords: Performance measures; Small to medium‐sized enterprises; Assessment (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2010
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (10)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:ijppmp:v:59:y:2010:i:2:p:186-200

DOI: 10.1108/17410401011014258

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