Public-sector target
A public-sector target states a desired service, output, outcome or resource result for a public body. It should reflect policy objectives, quality, access, equity and available resources. Multiple objectives and external influences make target setting and attribution difficult. Avoid relying on one easily counted output or a financial total, and consider how incentives can encourage gaming, displacement of effort or exclusion of complex cases.
Worked example
A service targets shorter waiting time while also monitoring clinical priority, patient outcomes and equitable access, rather than rewarding only the number treated.
Common mistake
A numerical target can be met by reclassifying or avoiding difficult cases without improving public value.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | APM | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | MA | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | PM | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| FIA | FMA | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |