A Critical Evaluation of the Public Service Improvement Framework

Purpose – This viewpoint article is to critically evaluate the use of the Public Sector Improvement Framework (PSIF) across public sector agencies in Scotland and explore the research gaps and consequent questions which arise. It is considered that the national promotion of a methodology for public sector improvement, whilst entirely legitimate, deserves independent scrutiny.
Approach – The literature in this area has been reviewed, however the statements of the Improvement Service and EFQM have been explored to identify independent academic research which would support or inform them.
Findings – There are significant research gaps in the published literature which not only raise considerations around the effective deployment of EFQM but also the requirement for PSIF. The question of whether there is a requirement to adapt EFQM for the public sector is also raised.
Limitations – This article explored published academic research and does not reference any internal research undertaken by either the Improvement Service or EFQM.
Implications – Practitioners who have implemented or are considering implementing PSIF should do so from an informed perspective and be aware of the apparent lack of published research and the significant gaps and questions raised through this article.
Originality – No published research on PSIF and its adaptation from the EFQM Business Model has been identified and given the investment and impact of implementing the model organisation wide, it is considered extremely valuable to raise these questions for practitioners as well as encouraging the academic community in undertaking research in this area.