Critical Success Factors in the Implementation of Performance Management Systems in UAE Government Organisations

Abstract

This study undertook research on government organisations in the UAE with a view toward identifying the most important Critical Success Factors (CSFs) that support the successful implementation of performance management systems (PMSs). However, the study was not limited to the identification of such CSFs, but also sought to examine their relevance and criticality. The remit of the research focus was narrowed to an attempt to understand the causes of PMS failure and to avoid possible obstacles to PMS implementation. Qualitative research took the form of case studies involving interviews, observations and document reviews. This study makes several contributions to the literature on CSFs that influence successful PMS implementation in the government sector, principally in the UAE and other developing countries. Further, it presents a theoretical model of CSFs for the successful implementation of PMS. The findings and recommendations presented in this paper could serve as guidelines for practitioners in the field of PMSs and for government and public organisations to fully benefit from the implementation of PMSs.