Decision theory for comparing institutions
N.T. Longford
Abstract
Various forms of performance assessment
are applied to public service institutions,
such as hospitals, schools, police units and local authorities.
Difficulties arise in the interpretation of the results presented
in some established formats because they require a good understanding
and appreciation of the uncertainties involved.
Usually the results have to be adapted to the perspectives of the users -
managers of the assessed units, a consumer, or a central authority
(a watchdog) that dispenses awards and sanctions.
We present a decision-theoretical approach to these and related problems
in which the perspectives are integrated in the analysis and its results
are choices from a finite list of options (alternative courses of action).
Submitted; August 2016.