The Effectiveness of OPRAS in Performance Management in Local Government Authorities: A case of Ludewa Local Government Authority

Abstract

The objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of Open Performance Review Appraisal System (OPRAS) in performance management in Local Government Authorities (LGAs). Ludewa LGA was the focus area of the study with a sample size of 322 respondents. The study adopted a descriptive design using a mixed approach. The tools that were used to collect data were questionnaires, individual in-depth interviews and document reviews. Quantitative data analysis was done with the help of SPSS version 20 using mean and one sample T-Test and data are presented in tabular form. Qualitative data analysis was done using thematic and content analyses and data are presented in statements. The findings show that OPRAS is not effective in performance management in LGAs and is still faced by setbacks that failed its predecessor, the Closed Annual Confidential Report System (CACRS). There is misinterpretation of the OPRAS to mean a tool for promotion only and its role of providing performance feedback and capacity building is highly minimised. More surprising, even those promotions are less likely based on OPRAS as few public servants fill in the OPRAS forms and reviews are rarely conducted to agree on performance scores. Similarly, trainings and funds to facilitate appraisal are so scarce