Growing emphasis on evidence-based policy making and delivering value for money in public-service provision has encouraged the development of new approaches to public-service management, including in PES. An important part of this is performance management, which is based on the development of specific targets and the measurement of the performance of the services delivered.

PES demonstrate a wide range of approaches to performance management, which are partly linked to how PES use results and outcomes. Most PES use a recognised quality management model. They also operate some form of annual performance cycle, with performance targets that are set and measured on a yearly basis. A number of PES even use multi-annual cycles in performance management, which support a longer-term view in PES target setting and policy-making. 

The Decision on enhanced cooperation between PES recognises the importance of performance management for PES and introduces the concept of ‘benchlearning’. The PES Network will measure and compare PES performance through benchmarking and use the findings to share evidence-based good practice and promote mutual learning.