At the federal level, what is the status of performance reporting?

Performance reporting at the federal level is established as a required practice to enhance accountability and improve government performance. This mandate aligns with the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) and its subsequent amendments, which emphasize the importance of setting performance goals, measuring outcomes, and reporting progress towards these goals.

The requirement for performance reporting stems from a commitment to transparency and the efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Federal agencies must not only report their performance data but also develop strategic plans that outline their objectives, as well as the methods they will employ to achieve them. This ensures that agencies are accountable for their results and that there is measured progress toward achieving the federal government’s broader goals.

Given that the performance reporting process is mandated by law, it serves as a critical tool for oversight, helping to maintain the public's trust in government operations and decision-making. This distinguishes it from practices that may be recommended, optional, or voluntary, which do not carry the same level of obligation or accountability.