In governmental performance, what does 'operating performance' refer to?

'Operating performance' in the context of governmental performance primarily refers to the efficiency of spending and the effectiveness of programs. This concept emphasizes how well a government agency or entity uses its resources to achieve desired outcomes and fulfill its objectives.

Efficient spending indicates that funds are being used wisely, without waste, and that budgetary allocations contribute directly to the government’s aims. When examining program effectiveness, the focus is on whether the programs are achieving their intended results and making a tangible impact on the community or the population they serve. This is crucial for accountability in government, as it highlights how public resources are managed and the benefits derived from them.

While complying with legal requirements, monitoring taxpayer satisfaction, and assessing public employee performance are all important aspects of governmental operations, they do not encapsulate the overall essence of 'operating performance' as thoroughly as efficient spending and program effectiveness do. Operating performance is fundamentally about the results and efficiency of governmental actions concerning public service delivery.