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Applying outcome evaluation and measures to environmental management programs
Author(s) -
Schene Michael G.,
Salmon James T.
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
environmental quality management
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.249
H-Index - 27
eISSN - 1520-6483
pISSN - 1088-1913
DOI - 10.1002/tqem.3310060409
Subject(s) - outcome (game theory) , stakeholder , audit , context (archaeology) , work (physics) , government (linguistics) , identification (biology) , process management , business , risk analysis (engineering) , management science , accounting , engineering , economics , management , mechanical engineering , paleontology , linguistics , philosophy , botany , mathematical economics , biology
Environmental program and audit procedures primarily focus on solving perceived immediate problems and do not provide a context within which to evaluate the work and its importance for the decision maker. Outcome evaluation offers a theory‐based model for designing long‐term solutions based on stakeholder expectation and, ultimately, ownership of the performance changes. Problem identification as well as the development of actions and their measurement are done with the full participation of those responsible for the implementation of the changes. Ownership of the results is reinforced and, significantly, the decision maker and other interested parties can measure the value or the importance of the work. This article describes how outcome evaluation can be an important tool for federal environmental managers who must respond to the Government Performance and Results Act (1993) and privatesector companies. Used in combination with traditional environmental practices, outcome evaluation can contribute to both the design and the implementation of a successful environmental management program.