Australian Government Architecture Reference Models Version 3.0

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OPM Business Operation task
OUTPUTS
USAGE
EFFECTS
OUTCOMES
Produced outputs are consistent with the definitions of the business processes that were executed in
order to create them.
The outputs of work could include:
� a roadway constructed and ready for use
� public information campaigns on the risks of smoking approved for implementation
� legislation prohibiting the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, and
police officers trained in undertaking the policing action
� military operation plans, such as the INTERFET plan, approved and ready for execution, and
soldiers trained and ready to be deployed for the operation.
The outputs that have been produced do not in themselves realise an outcome unless the output of an
activity was the removal of an obstruction to what would otherwise be normal ‘state of the world’. Outputs
must be utilised in order to create an effect or realise an outcome.
Usage includes activities such as:
� using a new roadway as a means of travelling to work or transporting goods
� adjusting personal behaviour as a result of public information campaigns run by government,
such as anti-smoking campaigns
� executing of policing action targeting drink-driving with random breath tests
� executing a military action, such as the INTERFET military operation in East Timor.
The usage of outputs causes effects that are observable and measurable:
� Traffic congestion in a particular locale is eased and transit times are reduced—because people
are using the new roadway
� The number of deaths resulting from smoking-related illness declines—because people are
aware of the dangers of smoking and are getting help to quit.
� The number of people arrested for drink-driving declines—because people are aware of the
consequences of drink-driving (arrest or possible death).
� The number of alcohol-related road accidents declines—because police are conducting random
breath tests and arresting drink-drivers.
� Free and democratic elections are held in East Timor—because of the actions and ongoing
presence of Australian and international troops.
The outcome realised by the program can be inferred through the observed and measured effect. Based
upon the examples provided above, it could be argued that:
� the construction of new infrastructure has facilitated socioeconomic benefits, as was intended
� the anti-smoking campaign was successful in reducing the incidence of smoking-related
fatalities
� legislating against driving under the influence of alcohol successfully reduced the number of
road accidents involving alcohol
� the INTERFET military action succeeded in securing the independence of East Timor.
Australian Government Architecture Reference Models Version 3.0