Ministerial targets
Our ministerial targets support Defra's delivery of its Public Service Agreement (PSA) targets and strategic objectives. They are announced in the House of Commons and reviewed annually to ensure they remain relevant to our agency.
Defra audits our performance against these targets at the end of each financial year. That performance is then noted against previous years and listed in our Annual Report and Accounts. Our performance against the 2008-09 ministerial targets was as follows:
Service delivery
Customer satisfaction to exceed 82%
To provide a high standard of services to the satisfaction of customers. Measured through the weighted average of customer response to a post-contract survey, which covers seven aspects of service quality.
2008-09 outturn: Target achieved - 89%
Delivery of R&D milestones to exceed 90%
To fulfil R&D commitments on time, within budget and to agreed quality standards. This target covers R&D milestones that support Defra's strategic objectives and intermediate outcomes. Performance is reported as a proportion of agreed outputs weighted by contract value.
2008-09 outturn: Target achieved - 93%
Science quality indicators to exceed 75%
To enhance scientific capability and reputation using indicators grouped around research, wider dissemination and use of our science, and scientific capability. Measures include customer surveys, numbers of peer-reviewed scientific papers and investment in new science.
2008-09 outturn: Target achieved - 89%
Value for public money
Recover the full cost of our services
To demonstrate financial sustainability through sound operational financial management and appropriate investment in Cefas' future, including the delivery of our transformation plan. This target is measured through the achievement of an audited break-even result in 2008-09.
2008-09 outturn: Target achieved
Efficiency savings to the Laboratory Strategy Programme (LSP) plans
To operate with simple, reliable and effective processes in the support and delivery of customer projects. Performance against peer and competitor benchmarks will be used to monitor progress to deliver financial efficiency targets. These are set out in the re-phased LSP plans and include reducing administrative headcount and costs.
2008-09 outturn: Target achieved
Capacity and capability
Relocate the Burnham-on-Crouch laboratory in 2008-09
To invest in transformation in line with Cefas' long-term strategy, with the successful relocation of the Burnham-on-Crouch laboratory to Lowestoft during 2008-09 being a major milestone.
2008-09 outturn: Target achieved
Staff satisfaction survey to exceed 65%
To respect and help the agency's people to develop. Measured by an annual questionnaire to staff, using a weighted scale for the eight survey categories.
2008-09 outturn: Target achieved - 69%
