The impact of the performance measurement system on the organizational performance of the public sector in a transition economy: Is public accountability a missing link?

Abstract

The performance measurement system (PMS) in the public sector has attracted the attention of many researchers around the world. Drawing on institutional theories, especially neo-institutional sociology, this study examines the mediating role of public accountability in the relationship between PMS and organizational performance in Vietnam’s public sector. The research model and hypotheses were tested by SmartPLS3 software with 214 survey samples from accountants and managers working in public organizations in Vietnam. The results show that public accountability fully mediates the relationship between PMS and organizational performance. These results provide some theoretical and administrative implications for public organizations in Vietnam in applying PMS to improve public accountability and organizational performance.