Government Learning and Midle Level Performance in the Public Sector Organizations

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to examine the effect of government learning (GL), budget goal (BG) and job satisfaction (JS) on mid-level performance (MP). Budget goal (BG) and job satisfaction (JS) as mediating variables of the relationship between GL and MP in public sector organizations.

Method: The 42 public agencies in West Java, Indonesia, 126 middle-level managers were randomly selected as participants, namely budgeting, finance and accounting committee divisions. On the 88 questionnaires (70%) were returned. Those 78 questionnaires were fully completed for the final data and to test the hypotheses.

Results: The results showed that GL has a direct and positive effect on BG and JS. GL and BG have a direct and positive effect on MP. GL and BG have an indirect and positive effect on MP. A surprising result has been proof in this study, the BG and JS are mediating variables relationship between GL and MP in public institutions.

Conclusions and implications: The government's learning will be a key factor improving BG and JS, while middle-level managers participate in the preparation of the budgeting process and their objectives. That as collaboration, interpreting, integrating and institutionalizing in the public services. Theoretical implications and mid-level implications are discussed.

Keywords: Government learning capability, budget goal, job satisfaction, midle level performance, and public sector organizations.