Suorituskeskeisyyttä

Suorituskeskeisyyttä, a Finnish term that translates to performance orientation or result‑centric focus, refers to an organizational or individual mindset that places primary importance on achieving measurable outcomes. The concept emerged in the early 1990s as part of a broader shift toward outcome‑based management in both public and private sectors. It encourages setting clear, specific, and time‑bound goals, monitoring progress through key performance indicators, and rewarding successful achievement. In educational contexts, suorituskeskeisyyttä manifests as curriculum reforms that emphasize demonstrable competencies and assessment results. Critics argue that an overemphasis on quantifiable outcomes can narrow learning experiences, reduce intrinsic motivation, and foster a culture of competition rather than collaboration. Proponents claim that it drives efficiency, accountability, and continuous improvement by making expectations transparent and aligning resources with strategic priorities. The model is also related to international frameworks such as the OECD’s PISA assessments and the New Public Management movement, which advocate results‑based accountability across sectors. While suorituskeskeisyyttä offers clear benefits in terms of performance management and benchmarking, sustainable implementation requires balancing measurable targets with qualitative factors such as employee well‑being, innovation, and long‑term stakeholder value.