39 U.S.C. § 2801: Definitions

For purposes of this chapter the term—(1) “outcome measure” refers to an assessment of the results of a program activity compared to its intended purpose; (2) “output measure” refers to the tabulation, calculation, or recording of activity or effort and can be expressed in a quantitative or qualitative manner; (3) “performance goal” means a target level of performance expressed as a tangible, measurable objective, against which actual achievement shall be compared, including a goal expressed as a quantitative standard, value, or rate; (4) “performance indicator” refers to a particular value or characteristic used to measure output or outcome; (5) “program activity” means a specific activity related to the mission of the Postal Service; and (6) “program evaluation” means an assessment, through objective measurement and systematic analysis, of the manner and extent to which Postal Service programs achieve intended objectives.