Reconceptualising performance measurement and management: evaluating a social complexity framework

Purpose Alternative theoretical perspectives on performance measurement and management (PMM) have been advanced in response to shortcomings observed with the dominant control systems-based paradigm. The purpose of this investigation is to ascertain whether one such perspective, rooted in social systems theory and practice theory, can accommodate these shortcomings and positively impact organisational effectiveness (OE) and performance. Design/methodology/approach Longitudinal critical realism-based case study research is employed in action research mode to investigate how adopting a social complexity perspective on PMM affected the behaviour and performance of a commercial organisation. Findings The case study observations suggest that by putting people and their behaviour and organisational practices at the centre of PMM, near-term organisational outcomes can be influenced favourably in complex and dynamic environments. Practical implications This investigation provides a tool for undertaking a social complexity interpretation of PMM. Originality/value This research supports the proposal that complexity theory provides an alternative paradigm for managing performance in organisations and describes the first practical application of a social complexity interpretation of PMM. It presents a model for use and further development by other researchers.