Reworks: A robust system efficiency measure
| Published date | 01 September 2018 |
| Date | 01 September 2018 |
| DOI | http://doi.org/10.1177/1035719X18796611 |
| Subject Matter | Articles |
https://doi.org/10.1177/1035719X18796611
Evaluation Journal of Australasia
2018, Vol. 18(3) 183 –191
© The Author(s) 2018
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DOI: 10.1177/1035719X18796611
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Reworks: A robust system
efficiency measure
Ralph Renger
University of North Dakota, USA
Brain Keogh
Cobalt59, Australia
Andrew Hawkins
Charles Darwin University, Australia
Jirina Foltysova
Walden University, USA
Eric Souvannasacd
University of North Dakota, USA
Abstract
The article reports on the inaugural Australian-American system evaluation summit
convened in Wyoming, USA, focusing on the application of system evaluation theory
(SET). The think tank noted SET’s efficiency principles and published illustrations are
emergency response sector specific and pondered whether efficiency measures could
be identified for systems targeting complex social problems. The article describes
how the think tank used the concept of system waste as a springboard to identify
reworks as a universal system efficiency measure. Reworks were defined as repeating
all or part of a system standard operating procedure (SOP) or adding additional steps
to the SOP to satisfy externalities to the primary purpose. The article then describes
the think tank conclusions regarding the utility of reworks as a proxy measure for
the four SET factors influencing system efficiency: training, information technology,
leadership and culture. The think tank concludes with a discussion of the cautions
evaluators should observe when interpreting reworks.
Corresponding author:
Ralph Renger, Center for Rural Health, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA.
Email: ralph.renger@med.und.edu
796611EVJ0010.1177/1035719X18796611Evaluation Journal of AustralasiaRenger et al.
research-article2018
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