Analysis & Evaluation

How do we evaluate performance?

Organisations need to understand how they are performing, both at a strategic and granular level. Often this extends far beyond the obvious analysis and reporting of sales revenue, customer numbers and costs. Continuous improvement of performance can only take place if the drivers are fully understood.

To achieve insight and understanding we analyse data using a variety of techniques. Good quality analysis enables an organisation to quickly determine and implement business performance improvements.

Analysis

Analysis is the process of breaking a complex topic or substance into smaller parts to gain a better understanding of it. It helps an organisation to improve how it conducts its functions and activities in order to reduce overall costs, provide more efficient use of resources, and better support customers.

It introduces the notion of process orientation, of concentrating on and rethinking end-to-end activities that create value for customers, while removing unnecessary, non-value added work. Many organisations use consultants to facilitate and carry out research, analysis and evaluation to support strategy, policy and programmes.

Techniques and Systems

Many models, techniques and systems exist to assist in analysis and evaluation of organisations. These include:

• BPM (business performance management)
• CPM (corporate performance management)
• EPM (enterprise performance management)
• Lean
• TQM (Total Quality Management)
• Six Sigma business process improvement

While these may have different aims, the importance of detailed analysis is a common underlying theme.

 

The first stage in the Six Sigma or Total Quality Management processes is to find out exactly where your organisation is. These tools provide a crystal clear picture of the financial and operational health of any company.

 

Usually large quantities of raw data exists within organisations. An important skill is to be able to identify that which will provide the right answer to the question being asked. Much time can be wasted studying information which is not robust and could lead to inaccurate conclusions.

 

The availability of ‘business intelligence’ software and the data warehouses which sit behind them has helped businesses understand more about their performance. Additionally, ‘dashboard’ reporting methods are used by management to quickly understand KPI performance and results in real time.

How can I help?

Over many years in senior management I have used various analysis techniques to help understand issues, drivers and organisational situations. In addition, I can bring fresh insight to help you understand your business and make the right decisions going forward.

I will usually collect data, undertake analysis, research and evaluation and compile performance information. As well as focussing on the individual organisation, I review the wider environment or industry if appropriate.

 

My objective is to provide strategically focussed research, analysis and evaluation to underpin sound, practical and timely research-based decision making. Contact me now for a discussion of your requirements.

 

Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.
Albert Einstein