Common Assessment Framework Research Articles

The LTAR Common Experiment: Facilitating improved agricultural sustainability through coordinated cross-site research.

Long-term research is essential for guiding the development of agroecosystems to meet escalating production demands in a manner that is environmentally sound and socially acceptable. Research must integrate biophysical and socioeconomic factors to provide geographically scalable knowledge that involves stakeholders across the research-education-extension-policy spectrum. In response to this need, the Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) network developed a "Common Experiment," which seeks to develop and disseminate multi-region, science-based information to enable implementation of visionary agricultural innovations while simultaneously promoting food security, well-being, environmental quality, and climate adaptation and mitigation. The core design of the Common Experiment contrasts prevailing and alternative/aspirational production systems, with the latter including novel innovations hypothesized to advance sustainable intensification in locally appropriate ways. Treatments in the Common Experiment represent a diversity of production systems under cropland, grazing land, and integrated crop/grazing land management. Where possible, treatments are evaluated at multiple spatial scales (e.g., from plot to enterprise) and are designed to evolve over the course of the experiment with stakeholder input. A common assessment framework guides data collection for the experiment and is complemented by metric-specific protocols and an emerging data management infrastructure. Currently, there are large differences among sites in the application of the experimental framework and degree of stakeholder engagement; differences largely grounded in pragmatic issues related to land access, site expertise, and resource availability. The full potential of the LTAR Common Experiment may be realized with strategic investments in network capacity.

Recommendations for a positive energy district framework – Application and evaluation of different energetic assessment methodologies

Positive Energy Districts are seen as a stepstone towards climate-neutrality for European cities. The concept aims to make districts an active contributor to urban energy systems. However, the definition of PEDs is relatively loose and there is currently a lack of a common European assessment methodology, which makes it difficult to evaluate PED in practice. This research evaluates the energetic assessment methodologies developed in three PED-relevant projects in Europe – namely MAKING CITY, Zukunftsquartier Wien, and Zero Emission Neighbourhood – in order to derive recommendations for a common PED assessment framework. For this purpose, the three methodologies have been applied to case study districts in Germany. Subsequently, the application of the methodologies has been analysed based on their general practicality as well as their fulfilment of the PED objectives. The findings suggest that a positive energy balance might not be considered as a prerequisite of PEDs as this strict requirement sets a high entry barrier for districts that lack the intrinsic factors for surplus renewable energy production. For PED as an inclusive framework, the focus should be on delivering positive impacts for the districts and the wider energy systems; whilst the positive energy balance can be seen as a complementary rather than a mandatory condition.

Leadership: impact on the satisfaction of Public Administration workers in Portugal

The purpose of this work is to evaluate the role of leadership in the local public administration workers' satisfaction level. This is a study case carried out with workers from the Municipality of Penafiel. A questionnaire was made, based on the European framework model of self-assessment CAF (Common Assessment Framework). With a total of 72 questions, supported by a Likert scale, we were able to get a final sample of 407 valid answers, out of 665 employees. Data indicates the existence of a positive and statistically significant correlation between leadership and motivation, involvement, and workers' participation. It was also possible to see the impact of leadership on the workers' perception of justice, equal opportunities, rewards and career development.

Conceptualizing and Validating a Model for Benchlearning Capability: Results from the Greek Public Sector

This paper aims to report on the development and assessment of a conceptual model for benchlearning capability, which facilitates sustainable performance improvement. Following an in-depth literature review, two main dimensions of benchlearning capability were identified. A focus group approach was used in order to establish the connection between these dimensions and the main construct (benchlearning capability). A questionnaire was designed and administered to 502 individuals from 74 organizations that used the Common Assessment Framework, and a total of 163 respondents replied. For the structural model assessment, the PLS-SEM technique was employed. Literature reveals that benchlearning encompasses both comparative evaluation and organizational learning mechanisms. Moreover, the focus group concluded that Organizational Learning Capability (OLC) and Benchmarking Capability (BMKC) are positively related to Benchlearning Capability (BLNC). The quantitative analysis showed that the factor OLC and BMKC are related positively and significantly to BLNC. This paper is the first attempt to approach the benchlearning capability construct and to validate its model. It is also a first attempt towards providing empirical evidence that could help public managers understand the BLNC concept and formulate accordingly the appropriate strategy for improving the benchlearning capability and therefore achieving sustainable performance in their organizations.

Quality Management System in Education: Application of Quality Management Models in Educational Organization—Case Study from the Slovak Republic

The main mission of the internal quality system in educational institutions is to develop the importance of quality in all processes, create suitable conditions for increasing the loyalty and professional development of faculty staff, continually improve student satisfaction, and achieve recognition of educational institutions in the eyes of the public. In the Introduction, this paper covers the current state of the field of quality assurance of higher education in Slovakia. Quality management models that can be used appropriately and effectively in university conditions are identified in the next section. The aim of this overview section was to summarize the advantages and disadvantages resulting from the implementation of quality management models. The paper also includes a case study in which selected models of quality management implemented at a private university in Slovakia are described, especially the process model ISO 9001 and the common assessment framework (CAF) model. The self-assessment within the CAF model was carried out by a questionnaire survey; the obtained data were assessed by classical CAF scoring. The aim of the self-assessment was to identify problem areas and opportunities for improvement and to propose corrective actions. The specifics of the implementation of quality management models at a private university and the benefits resulting from the application are also been defined at the end of the article.

Strategic Planning and Performance Management for Citizens of Harghita County with the Introduction of the CAF Based Quality Management Tool (CAFHR) Project

Abstract The Harghita County Council has decided to carry out a self-assessment to evaluate the adequacy of its processes in the framework of a complex organizational development project using the CAF (Common Assessment Framework). The outcome of the performed self-assessment showed the capabilities and results of the operation, as well as the tasks of ensuring short- and medium-term development. This article aims to point out the needs and possibilities for improving administrative processes by presenting the experiences of the project. An important experience of the project is to prove the necessity of taking into account the specific features in addition to prove the general applicability of the model.

ASSESSMENT OF PEOPLE CRITERIA IN PUBLIC SECTOR: A TALE DOCUMENTED THROUGH LENS OF CAF

Growing trends such as globalization, internationalization, and diversity management have increased the use of HRM practices in the South Asian region. In the recent past, various reform initiatives taking place have propelled the public sector HRM in an opportunistic direction. HRM in Pakistan is still passing through a preliminary phase. The culture in Pakistan's public sector organization is highly centralized and bureaucratic with political interference on practices. It is a descriptive study framed in a mixed-method approach. A comparative analysis has been conducted of three semi-autonomous state-owned enterprises of Pakistan which are Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), and Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL). The current research's theoretical bases are taken from the revised version of CAF 2013 model by the European Institute of Public Administration. The research objectives are twofold: To study the people criterion of CAF in WAPDA, WASA and SNGPL, and to determine the strengths and weaknesses of these enterprises required to identify areas of improvement. The qualitative data will be collected through 45 in-depth interviews; analyzed through thematic analysis. The quantitative data is analyzed through scores given by interviewers and documentary secondary evidence. The current research will be significant as it will assist other public sector organizations in using quality management techniques and improve the performance of their organizations by following the footsteps of WAPDA, WASA, and SNGPL. Keywords: HRM system; Pakistan; Common Assessment Framework; Public sector. JEL Codes: M10; O15

Exploring the global and local social sustainability of wind energy technologies: An application of a social impact assessment framework

A transition to renewable energy sources is needed in the EU countries to achieve their goal of a low-carbon economy. This transition may come with potentially negative impacts on the well-being of the population, both globally and locally. Such social impacts are not yet systematically assessed for renewable energy technologies. In this paper, a social impact assessment framework for renewable energy technologies is developed and applied for a wind energy case study. The assessed social categories comprise impacts on human health, human rights infractions, working conditions, local job creation, quality of residential life, landscape quality. In order to cover this broad field of social impacts, four distinct social impact assessment methods were combined in a common social impact assessment framework. The application of the framework was demonstrated by means of the wind energy case study. The results are presented in the form of a social sustainability dashboard comprising 23 social impact indicators covering both global and local well-being impacts. The analysis showed that the life cycle material demand of offshore wind projects has larger impacts on global well-being than the onshore alternatives. For the local dimension, the offshore case was found to be less intrusive for the local population.

AAIM Recommendations to Improve Learner Transitions

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Progress of National Authorities Towards a Holistic Approach: Study Using a Common Assessment Framework

Progress of National Authorities Towards a Holistic Approach: Study Using a Common Assessment Framework

Enhancing the use of exposure science across EU chemical policies as part of the European Exposure Science Strategy 2020–2030

BackgroundA scientific framework on exposure science will boost the multiuse of exposure knowledge across EU chemicals-related policies and improve risk assessment, risk management and communication across EU safety, security and sustainability domains.ObjectiveTo stimulate public and private actors to align and strengthen the cross-policy adoption of exposure assessment data, methods and tools across EU legislation.MethodsBy mapping and analysing the EU regulatory landscape making use of exposure information, policy and research challenges and key areas of action are identified and translated into opportunities enhancing policy and scientific efficiency.ResultsIdentified key areas of actions are to develop a common scientific exposure assessment framework, supported by baseline acceptance criteria and a shared knowledge base enhancing exchangeability and acceptability of exposure knowledge within and across EU chemicals-related policies. Furthermore, such framework will improve communication and management across EU chemical safety, security and sustainability policies comprising sourcing, manufacturing and global trade of goods and waste management. In support of building such a common framework and its effective use in policy and industry, exposure science innovation needs to be better embedded along the whole policymaking cycle, and be integrated into companies’ safety and sustainability management systems. This will help to systemically improve regulatory risk management practices.SignificanceThis paper constitutes an important step towards the implementation of the EU Green Deal and its underlying policy strategies, such as the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability.

La valutazione della soddisfazione del lavoro in ambito educativo: uno studio empirico

Job satisfaction is an emotional state resulting from a personal evaluation of one's work or experience. This document reports a study concerning the satisfaction of teachers' work, in particular a sample of 362 teachers from secondary schools of the province of Naples was examined. A questionnaire, the Common Assessment Framework & Education (CAF) was used for data collection, while for the processing of the same, a structural equation model was used to identify the factors that most influence satisfaction on the teaching staff work. The results obtained, following a statistical modeling, underline a significant difference between male teachers and female teachers.

A multi-group higher-order factor analysis for studying the gender-effect in Teacher Job Satisfaction

Teachers’ performances also depend on whether and how they are satisfied with their job. Therefore, Teacher Job Satisfaction must be considered as the driver of teachers’ accomplishments. To plan future policies and improve the overall teaching process, it is crucial to understand which factors mostly contribute to Teacher Job Satisfaction. A Common Assessment Framework and Education questionnaire was administered to 163 Italian public secondary school teachers to collect data, and a second-order factor analysis was used to detect which factors impact on Teacher Job Satisfaction, and to what extent. This model-based approach guarantees to detect factors which respect important properties: unidimensionality and reliability. All the coefficients are estimated according to the maximum likelihood estimation method in order to make inference on the parameters and on the validity of the model. Moreover, a new multi-group test for higher-order factor analysis was proposed and implemented. Finally, we analyzed in detail whether the factors impacting Teacher Job Satisfaction are characterized by gender.

KM tools alignment with KM processes: the case study of the Greek public sector

ABSTRACT This paper reports an investigation into the alignment of Knowledge Management (KM) tools with KM processes under the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) implementation. An exploratory case study was conducted to address this purpose by employing literature review methods, focus groups, observation, and document analysis. From the data analysis, we found that in each KM process, both technological and non-technological KM tools were used. However, there were limitations regarding the number of public organisations and the study in the Greek context, which could be addressed with further research that enhances generalisability within different public organisations globally. In summary, the study provides: a) a novel theoretical insight in combining KM tools with KM processes in the public sector, and b) a practical “roadmap” of KM for public sector executives.

Transitioning to a carbon-constrained world: Reductions in coal-fired power plant emissions through unit-specific, least-cost mitigation frontiers

There is growing concern that progress toward reaching the carbon dioxide (CO2) targets set forth in the Paris Agreement is falling short of the mark, and efforts to decarbonize the global economy must be hastened and the reductions deepened. Doing so quickly through a buildup of natural gas generating capacity as a replacement for coal-fired capacity can greatly aid in lowering near-term emissions towards the Agreement target to limit future climate impact to well below 2 °C but would incur stranded costs as natural gas assets are retired before their end-of-life age. The stranding of such capital investment may inhibit efforts to further decarbonize the world economy because of technology lock-in. One possible solution to reduce such stranded costs is to mitigate CO2 emissions from the existing coal-fleet. For the evaluation of the costs and emissions, we develop a novel method that uses unique coal-fired electric generating unit (EGU) characteristics to evaluate multiple mitigation-technology options under local fuel prices; the result of which is a least-cost mitigation frontier for nine EGU-specific mitigation solutions created within a common assessment framework. With this EGU-specific method, we find the mitigation options that achieve the lowest capital cost and levelized cost of electricity to meet CO2 emission-intensity reduction-targets for a representative EGU in the U.S. coal-fired fleet and use this method to analyze the uncertainty for these deterministic solutions. For this EGU, we find that the portfolio of mitigations defining the frontier is sensitive to fuel price variation, as well as other EGU-specific factors such as efficiency and retirement age. A probabilistic analysis of projected fuel prices indicates that mitigation decision-related regret can be high but may be limited to specific intensity targets. A further insight is that for deep CO2 mitigation, high capital costs and predominantly low natural gas prices may limit the viability of coal-fired EGUs retrofitted with carbon capture and storage with an auxiliary power system, even with a tax credit (e.g., Section 45Q of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018).

СОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАНИЕ ДЕЯТЕЛЬНОСТИ ОРГАНОВ И ОРГАНИЗАЦИЙ ПУБЛИЧНОЙ СФЕРЫ В РОССИИ ПОСРЕДСТВОМ ВНЕДРЕНИЯ ЕВРОПЕЙСКОЙ МОДЕЛИ СОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАНИЯ КАЧЕСТВА (Improving the Activities of Bodies and Organizations of the Public Sphere in Russia through the Implementation of the European Model of Quality Improvement)

Russian Abstract: Данное исследование посвящено изучению и анализу опыта и проблем внедрения одной из современных моделей менеджмента качества в сфере государственного управления - европейской модели повышения эффективности организаций государственного сектора посредством самооценки Common Assessment Framework, CAF (далее - CAF). English Abstract: This study is devoted to the study and analysis of the experience and problems of implementation of one of the modern models of quality management in the field of public administration - the European model for improving the performance of public sector organizations through the self-assessment of the Common Assessment Framework, CAF (hereinafter - CAF).

Improvement of local self-government in Ukraine based on the CAF self-assessment model

The article is devoted to the consideration of key features and identification of prospects for the application of the new edition of the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) in local self-government of Ukraine, which was published in 2020.The authors conducted a study of the development of the CAF model, which was created by the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA) to promote good governance, and considered the prerequisites for the introduction and promotion of its use in local self-government in Ukraine. The experience of self-assessment is considered, which shows that the first steps in the application of CAF in Ukraine are made by public authorities, while in Europe the most common use of the model is in local self-governments. To date, self-assessment and benchmarking based on CAF is not a common and recognized tool for improving performance in Ukraine.The 20-year experience and stages of maturity of the CAF model since its creation are analyzed, which allowed to single out 5 phases of development. The characteristics of the guiding principles of the 2020 model publication are given. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of key differences in CAF 2013 and CAF 2020. CAF is seen as a tool to promote good governance, ensure the quality of public services and increase customer satisfaction and local businesses. The goals and principles of CAF 2020 and their connection with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations (UN), international ISO standards for management systems and European strategies are analyzed.It is determined that the use of internationally recognized principles, established practices (which can include CAF) will allow local self-governments of Ukraine to demonstrate reliability and ensure the sustainability of the development of the territory. Accentuate the possibility of using CAF through the implementation of mini-projects of self-assessment through international programs and technical assistance projects, the importance of promoting benchmarking and international exchange of experience to improve the quality of local self-government services, motivation of staff and increase the level of satisfaction of the local community.

Strategic Orientation and Effects of E-Administration: Findings from the Miles and Snow Framework

Much has been written about the strategic orientation of public administration organizations (prospecting, defending, reacting, and analyzing) and their consequences for organizational effects, but little is dedicated to e-administration. Is the provision of services using IT affecting the adoption of strategic orientation and its effects? The paper is dealing with e-administration issues, specifically in terms of the impact of the Miles and Snow strategic orientation on e-administration effects. To measure e-administration effects, the author’s personal tool using the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) criterion has been proposed. The data collection was conducted using the Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) method, in the period from November 2017 to January 2018. Two hundred and twenty-six Polish organizations took part in the study. The objective of this study, i.e., assessing the impact of strategic orientation and e-administration effects, was achieved by using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method. It is indicated that the Defender orientation is positively associated with the effects of e-administration.

Assessment or referral tool: the unintended consequences of a dual purpose common assessment framework form

ABSTRACT The Common Assessment Framework (CAF) was designed to facilitate early intervention through multi-agency working and the active involvement of families. The underlying principle was to move away from a risk-focused, needs-led or service-led culture to assess need and match needs to identified services. It was anticipated that services and assessments would become more evidence-based, and a common language between professionals and agencies would evolve. Taking a social constructionist approach this study explored professionals’ experiences of the use of the Common Assessment Framework form. Forty-one professionals from four different local authorities and a variety of agencies took part in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed utilizing thematic analysis. Findings suggest the unintended consequences of the use of the CAF were influenced by local authority policy. As the local authorities adopted the policy of utilizing the CAF as a referral mechanism, rather than to assess needs, professionals unintentionally perceived the CAF form as a referral tool, to refer families to existing service provision. Further to this, professionals referred to the CAF form itself, as a ‘means to an end’, implying that this was a step that had to be overcome in order to access services.

The Implementation of the Common Assessment Framework at the General Hospital of Attica “KAT”

The Implementation of the Common Assessment Framework at the General Hospital of Attica “KAT”