The concept of performance: a semantic review

Abstract

The concept of performance is pluralistic and demonstrates the ability to migrate from one linguistic and semantic register to another, e.g. from profit to non‐profit contexts. Usage changes denotational and connotational aspects of the concept as people, lay and information professionals, use distinct frames of meaning and employ the concept in abstract, anecdotal and other forms. Performance is a central criterion in the effectiveness of the supplier/user exchange relationship, and this criterial role implies the existence of a deep agenda in both the semantics of the concept and its use. The fact that the concept is also mobile is suggested with reference to new quantitative dimensions attributed to it by literature and practice.

Citation

Hannabuss, S. (1987), "The concept of performance: a semantic review", Aslib Proceedings, Vol. 39 No. 5, pp. 149-158. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb051048