In order to performance manage and evaluate the work that we do within the CLAHRC, we have developed a set of key performance indicators (KPIs) which allow us to link our activities to ‘process and outcomes-based’ metrics. We have developed a software tool based on the KPIs so that we can capture these measurements on an ongoing basis along the timeline of the project. The KPI management tool will ensure that all the activity within our priority projects is documented and linked to the relevant KPI.

The KPIs

1. Develop NHS and industry collaborations and commercialisation of ideas

2. PPI – Service user, carer and public engagement in the research process from design to evaluation

3. Produce high quality research outputs

4. Develop knowledge exchange capacity within the CLAHRC and beyond

5. Impact of CLAHRC research activities on the policy cycle

6. Impact of CLAHRC research activities on clinical practice

7. Increased awareness by researchers of local and national policy and practice, in the creation of research questions

8. Policy-makers, commissioners, service leaders and researchers collaborating in research, from design to evaluation

9. Build research capacity

10. Implement a CLAHRC Fellows programme

11. Facilitate and effect creation of evidence-based service improvements

12. Impact of CLAHRC research activities on service utilisation

13. Impact on health outcomes

14. Economic and societal benefits

The KPI management system is a depository for all the data relating to the CLAHRC projects and tracks the progress of every project along its timeline, by recording a series of events or milestones, and then links each of these events to KPIs (Key Performance Indicators); in this way the progress of the project, and of the CLAHRC, can be monitored. The database is kept up to date by the CLAHRC researchers who are responsible for entering the data for their project.