An online performance management system introduced recently by Victoria’s Shire of Yarra Ranges is giving staff a new sense of clarity and ownership in their own performance development. Shire of Yarra Ranges Executive Organisational Development, Jill Colson, said that replacing the old paper based Word template performance management program with an online, software driven system was likely to deliver significant benefits over time.
“The first plus is that users no longer have to fiddle with Word templates and forms to complete their performance reviews and development plans,” she said. “Ultimately the online system will deliver real time and cost efficiencies.
“But above and beyond these efficiencies, managers and directors are benefiting from having all the necessary information at their fingertips, online. The software based system allows managers to run reports which immediately identify people management issues, such as training or skills development requirements, for their departments. As systems administrator I can also run reports on an organisation wide basis.
“This ability to track the alignment of performance management with organisational goals is what makes an online system so powerful.”
Located on Melbourne’s eastern metropolitan fringe, the Shire of Yarra Ranges covers an area of almost 2,500 square kilometres, and is home to more than 143,000 people. One of the most diverse of any municipalities in Victoria, the Shire services over 55 suburbs, townships, small communities and rural areas. The Shire has over 800 employees, with an EFT of about 450.
Three online performance management software systems were evaluated before selecting the IHR3 product developed by Melbourne based human capital specialists, IXP3.
The online pilot program was introduced at executive officer, manager and director level in July 2004. Following some further refinement, the online system will be cascaded through to the supervisor level in March, prior to an organisation wide deployment in April 2005 Careful attention was paid to customising the online system to meet the Shire’s particular needs.
“We really wanted a system that would be intuitive for the user and had the look and feel that replicated some of our existing processes,” Jill Colson said. “Through an intensive customisation program with the developer we ensured the software serves out organisational goals, rather than dictating outcomes.
For further information please visit www.ihr3.com.
