PSAs were introduced ten years ago. Our results show a continued, if small, improvement in the quality of the underpinning data systems, which has been achieved alongside a restructuring of both the overall framework and the underpinning indicators and metrics. However, clear weaknesses remain and the rate of improvement has slowed considerably. At the current rate of progress, it will take a long time to achieve a fit for purpose position. Making the necessary improvements to data systems will required a more determined effort by the Treasury and by Departments. The following recommendations include key points we have made in previous years, and re-emphasise the need to build data quality into management systems from the outset.
The following recommendations are designed to improve current performance reporting and accountability.