The Global Performance Audit Unit (GPAU), in collaboration with The KPI Institute, is launching a new research initiative to better understand how organizations manage strategy and performance today—and how they can do it better tomorrow.

This study focuses on building a clear picture of current practices in five core areas: strategic planning, performance measurement, performance improvement, employee performance management, and performance culture. The goal is to identify what’s working, where the blind spots are, and what steps organizations can take to strengthen their capabilities and the entire performance management system.

While the study is open to participants globally, its primary focus is on Saudi Arabia and the GCC region, where organizations are increasingly investing in performance maturity to align with national goals like Vision 2030.

At its core, this initiative is about creating a shared reference point—one that supports better decisions, more alignment, and stronger long-term outcomes.

Why now?

Across sectors, organizations are facing growing pressure to deliver results that are not only measurable but sustainable. Yet many lack a clear understanding of where their performance management systems stand. Without a structured baseline, it becomes difficult to separate strong practices from surface-level routines or to identify which improvements will actually drive impact.

This is especially true in the Middle East, where interest in strategy execution and performance maturity is accelerating. As governmental entities and businesses commit to ambitious transformation goals, there’s a need for more than inspiration—there’s a need for evidence. By launching this research now, GPA Unit aims to support that momentum with practical insights grounded in data and experience.

The study provides a regional checkpoint: a way to understand what organizations are doing today, where their gaps are, and how maturity in strategy and performance management is really taking shape in the field. It’s an opportunity to shift the conversation from theory to practice—and to ensure that what’s being built now can scale and last.

What does the study cover?

The research is built around GPA Unit’s Integrated Performance Maturity Model, which examines five core capabilities that define how well an organization manages strategy and performance. Each capability represents a distinct yet interconnected area where maturity can either drive clarity and alignment—or hold the organization back.

The five areas covered are:

● Strategy Planning – How clearly the organization defines its direction and structures the process of getting there.

● Performance Measurement – The tools and methods used to track progress meaningfully, not just mechanically.

● Performance Improvement – Whether performance results lead to learning and change, or just sit in reports.

● Employee Performance Management – The way individual contributions are defined, evaluated, and aligned with broader goals.

● Performance Culture – The behaviors, norms, and values that shape how seriously performance is taken across the organization.

Rather than isolating one component, the study looks at the entire system—recognizing that weaknesses in one area often undermine progress in others. Participants can complete one or more focused questionnaires based on their area of expertise or interest, helping us build a nuanced, layered understanding of how maturity looks in real settings.

Who should participate?

This research is open to professionals who work closely with strategy, performance, or people. Whether you're in the public or private sector, what matters most is that you have firsthand experience with how performance is planned, measured, and managed inside your organization.

We’re especially looking to engage:

● Strategy and performance specialists

● HR professionals involved in goal setting, evaluation, or development

● Executives and senior managers responsible for organizational results

Participation is open to individuals and organizations of all sizes, but the primary focus for this cycle is on Saudi Arabia, followed by broader outreach across the GCC and, eventually, global comparison. By hearing from a diverse set of voices, the study will reflect the real challenges and innovations shaping performance maturity across sectors.

Why get involved?

This research isn’t just about data—it’s about leadership.

By participating, your organization becomes part of a broader effort to strengthen strategy and performance management practices across the region. It’s a chance to:

● Contribute to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, supporting national development through evidence-based excellence.

● Be recognized as a thought leader in a high-impact regional study.

● Shape the next generation of performance systems, by sharing your insights and helping define what excellence looks like in practice.

● Foster innovation within and beyond your organization, through dialogue and exposure to best practices.

You’ll also join a growing network of professionals and institutions committed to building a more performance-oriented culture—grounded in insight, not guesswork.

What’s in it for you?

Participation comes with more than just the satisfaction of contributing to an important study. As a thank you for responding to all 5 surveys, participants will receive:

✓ Early access to key regional findings—get ahead of the curve with insights drawn from peer organizations across Saudi Arabia and the GCC.

✓ A complimentary research report—including benchmarking data to help you understand where your organization stands.

✓ 5 free e-learning certificates in Strategic Planning Maturity Assessment, Performance Measurement Maturity Assessment, Performance Improvement Maturity Assessment, Employee Performance Management Maturity Assessment and Performance Culture (each valued at $200).

✓ Free access to the self-paced Certified Performance Management System Audit Professional program (worth $1,500).

These benefits are designed to support both immediate insight and long-term development for professionals invested in strategy and performance excellence.

How does it work?

The study is open between April and August 2025, with data gathered through a combination of surveys and interviews. Participation is flexible—whether you’re ready to share broad insights or just want to focus on one capability area, your input is valuable.

● Survey participation takes around 20–30 minutes per capability and can be completed in either English or Arabic.

● Interviews are optional, lasting about 60–90 minutes, and conducted remotely. These conversations offer deeper insights into real-world practices and experiences.

● All responses are confidential, and participants will have the option to receive updates and summary results directly.

If you’d like to preview the questionnaires or get involved in the next phase, GPA Unit’s team is ready to connect.

How can you be part of the study?

This is your opportunity to shape the future of performance management in the region. By taking part, you're not only gaining valuable insights and recognition—you’re contributing to a stronger, more capable community of practice.

Whether you're leading strategic planning, managing teams, or driving results behind the scenes, your voice matters.

☛ Ready to participate?

Access the surveys links below:

Strategy Planning

Performance Measurement

Performance Improvement

Employee Performance Management

Performance Culture