Analytic Quality Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Citation reference: Harvey, L., 2004, Analytic Quality Glossary, Quality Research International, http://www.qualityresearchinternational.com/glossary/

This is a dynamic glossary and the author would welcome any e-mail suggestions for amendments or additions.

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Efficiency

core definition

Efficiency is the extent to which an activity achieves its goal whilst minimising resource usage.

explanatory context

analytical review

Fraser (1994, p. 104) defined it thus:

Efficiency. This is a measure of the resources used (costs) to achieve stated goals. It is unfortunate that governments frequently confuse quality in higher education with efficiency. Low-standard goals might well be achieved at low cost. (Fraser, 1994, p. 104)

Erlendsson (2002) defines efficiency as:

performing tasks with reasonable effort (‘doing things the right way’)

The UNESCO definition is:

Efficiency (educational): An ability to perform well or to achieve a result without wasted resources, effort, time, or money (using the smallest quantity of resources possible). Educational efficiency can be measured in physical terms (technical efficiency) or in terms of cost (economic efficiency). Greater educational efficiency is achieved when the same amount and standard of educational services are produced at a lower cost, if a more useful educational activity is substituted for a less useful one at the same cost, or if unnecessary educational activities are eliminated. A programme or a higher education institution may be efficiently managed, but not effective in achieving its mission, goals, or objectives. (Vlãsceanu et al., 2004, p. 38)

Wojtczak (2002) defines efficiency in the context of medial education:

Efficiency: An ability to perform well or achieve a result without wasted energy, resources, effort, time or money. Efficiency can be measured in physical terms (technical efficiency) or terms of cost (economic efficiency). Greater efficiency is achieved where the same amount and standard of services are produced for a lower cost, if a more useful activity is substituted for a less useful one at the same cost or if needless activities are eliminated.

associated issues

Efficiency is often used conterminously with value for money, although monetary value is only one aspect of efficiency. The confusion of quality with efficiency arises by using the value-for-money definition of quality.

related terms

Efficiency

See also