Performance management in the public service with particular reference to the senior management service cadre in South Africa: A perspective

The Performance Management and Development System (PDMS) for the South African Public Service was introduced in 2001,and driven by the transformative agenda to achieve both acceptable levels of service delivery and measurable results. Accordingly, there has been a shift from bureaucratic rules-driven approaches in public service management to a results-oriented approach to government performance. Although the main concern that should underpin the implementation of the PMDS is service delivery; the level of service delivery to date falls grossly short of being delivered at an acceptable level or quality. In this regard, the role of the Senior Management Service (SMS) cadre is critical as it is accountable for service provision and to demonstrate to the public that its needs are being addressed.