MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS AND RESEARCH MANAGEMENT IN UNIVERSITIES: an empirical and conceptual exploration.

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

175 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the Management Control Systems developed to manage research within UK University Business and Management Schools. Specifically, the paper examines internal management control responses to externally imposed Regulatory Systems. By examining organisational reactions to these systems the paper seeks to develop the conceptual framework of Management Control Systems.
Methodology
The paper explores Management Control Systems that comprise systems of performance measurement as a sub-set of performance management systems. It builds on previous literature that has identified perverse outcomes from the use of performance measurement within organisations. Empirically, the paper considers the UK Research Excellence Framework and the previous Research Assessment Exercises as externally imposed Regulatory Systems and it analyses the performance management and performance measurement practices employed by universities to resist and cope with these research assessments.
Findings
The paper finds that universities develop Management Control Systems, with performance measurement and management systems that contribute to even greater controls over individuals’ research activities than that intended from the Regulatory Systems. These new MCS are accepted by academics although they encourage a movement away from previously held academic values.

Originality
The paper analyses the resistance and coping strategies that result from the imposition of external performance measurement systems. It explains how resistance can lead to symbolic violence where participants become involved with their own subjugation.

Keywords:
Management control systems, performance management systems, performance measures, universities, research, symbolic violence

Article Classification:
Research paper
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS AND RESEARCH MANAGEMENT IN UNIVERSITIES: an empirical and conceptual exploration
Publication statusIn preparation - 9 Jul 2013

Cite this