Local government has traditionally measured success by focusing on inputs and outputs. Inputs include metrics such as expenditure, staff hours, and resources allocated to various programmes. Outputs, on the other hand, are tangible results like the number of potholes filled, permits issued, or community events held.
However, while these metrics can indicate how busy or efficient a local authority is, they do not necessarily reflect whether the community is better off or if residents' lives have improved in meaningful ways. This approach can overlook the bigger picture, such as whether people feel safer, healthier, or happier as a result of these efforts.
