Performance Management in the Finnish Government: Reflections and Future Directions from the Perspectives of Hybridity and Sustainability

This chapter deals with performance management in public sector activities. Our aim is to discuss fundamental assumptions and limitations of performance management systems and practices when they are adopted, implemented and used in different policies and agencies of the government. First, we briefly introduce the institutional structures of performance measurement and management in the Finnish government, in both central and local governments. Second, we provide theoretical insights into some of the most relevant problems and limitations of public sector performance management from two perspectives: hybridity and sustainability. This is followed by a case that illustrates such cross-lateral and multi-sectoral problems in the context of the implementation of Agenda 2030 in Finland. We conclude the chapter with a synthesis of the discussion, which also develops important future directions.