An enhanced framework for assessing the operational performance of public-private partnership school projects

Abstract

Purpose A study of the current practices for evaluating the ex-post performance of public-private partnership (PPP) school projects in Australia via literature review and qualitative case studies has found that no consistent approach exists for evaluating operational performance. A detailed critique of international PPP audits and practices has identified existing gaps in ex-post performance evaluation. Through a process of comparative analysis and industry confirmation, a performance analysis technique aligned with international practice has been developed that can be utilised by the educational departments across Australia to evaluate the ex-post performance of PPP projects (PPPs). The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach This paper opted for qualitative archival analysis of case studies using pattern matching, explanation building, time series, and comparative analysis. The data used for document analysis included value reports, project summaries, and contract documents, as well as local and international audit guidelines. Findings This paper reviewed current practices, identified a range of processes, and reported the best practices. However, consideration of the approaches taken in the UK and Australia for evaluating operational performance indicates that current techniques lack consistency. Research limitations/implications The developed ex-post performance measurement framework is limited to Australian PPP school projects and, at this stage, cannot be generalised to other social PPP projects. Practical implications The paper includes implications for the development of better performance evaluation practices and audits. Social implications An enhanced framework for measuring operational performance will increase the accountability of taxpayers in the content of their utilisation by the government. Originality/value This paper presents an enhanced ex-post performance measurement framework for education departments across Australia.