Abstract:
An Integrated Performance Management System was introduced in the
Public Service of Lesotho, in the Ministry of Social Development, to enhance
public officers' performance and ultimately service delivery. The study
identified challenges that impeded the implementation of the Integrated
Performance Management System within the Lesotho Ministry of Social
Development. The purpose of the study was to promote effective service
delivery based on the implementation of the Integrated Performance
Management System within the thirteen departments of this Ministry. The
research established that several legislative directives and policies have been
introduced to support the implementation of the Integrated Performance
Management System in the Ministry of Social Development. However,
challenges still seemed eminent. A case study was conducted within the
thirteen departments of the Lesotho Ministry of Social Development. A
quantitative approach, using self-administered questionnaires, was used to
collect data. The analysis was done through the Statistical Package for Social
Sciences version 23. The research showed that challenges in the
implementation of the Integrated Performance Management System revolve
around (i) a lack of training on performance management (i.e. a lack of
orientation on performance management, monitoring and evaluation, and
laws and policies supporting the implementation of the Integrated
Performance Management System); (ii) limited management involvement in
the implementation of the Integrated Performance Management System; and
(iii) poor communication in performance planning, reviews, feedback, and
monitoring and evaluation of performance. The article highlights the need for
support and leadership from managers when it comes to the successful
implementation of performance management in the public service. The
findings provide preliminary insight that adds to the body of knowledge
concerned with the implementation of performance management in the
Lesotho public service context as well as the broader service delivery
environment.
