Development of Consultant Performance Measures for Design Projects

Abstract

Measurement is an essential step in any control process. Performance is reflected by measures upon which corrective actions are suggested and taken; however, measures in organizations are often poorly designed and utilized. More specifically, many consultant performances are not at satisfactory levels. This paper presents consultant performance measures of deliverables, work process, and cost/schedule, and proposes a systematic measurement framework. Measures were tested on 8 design projects and their applicability was ensured. These measures can be used to disclose areas of excellent and poor performance in both the work process and results, to allow project participants to focus attention, and to address performance at the desired levels and aspects. One benefit of this research is the potential to improve the efficacy of public projects where consultants are used.