Performance measurement practices in manufacturing firms: an empirical investigation

Purpose - The objective of this study is to shed some light on performance measurement issues relevant to current practices. Design/methodology/approach - The performance measurement practices in terms of utilization, relevance, and availability of information are studied for a sample of 92 Portuguese manufacturing executives. Several statistical instruments were used namely multiple regression analysis, cluster analysis and gap analysis. Findings - The results of this study underscore consistent patterns pointing to a lack of a broad perspective on manufacturing performance measurement. Conclusions and their implications to the theory and art of performance measurement are presented. Research limitations/implications - The sample used in this study is specific in nature (Portuguese executives). Thus, the results should be interpreted accordingly. Future research should test the applicability of the obtained results using other sample frames. Practical implications - This study provides practicing managers with useful information regarding performance measures and measurement practices. Originality/value - This study represents an important step toward refining the theory and practice of performance measurement in manufacturing organizations.