Operation Performance of Taipei Sports Centers and Constructing Indicators for Assessment

[[abstract]]The purpose of the study aimed to discuss the operation performance of sports centers in Taipei. This study focused on several sports centers including Taipei Zhong Shan Sports Center, Taipei Bei Tou Sports Center, Taipei Jhong Jheng Sports Center, and Taipei Nangang Sports Center, which were all managed under the operate and transfer model. Using the balanced scorecard as an indicator, this research studied the performance of these sports centers by interviewing related scholars and experts. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was also applied to construct a performance appraisal indicator. The results of the study were as follows: 1. Most sports centers in Taipei applied the operate and transfer model and were financially stable. Also, the number of users had increased yearly. At the same time, based upon the principle of enhancing public welfare, the rights for minority groups to exercise were also taken into consideration. 2. Indicators used to assess Taipei sports centers include factors included the fours aspects , the 13 elements, which expanded into 67 indicators. The indicators cover quality and quantity and were exclusive and comprehensive. 3. Scholars and experts unanimously agreed that the financial aspect was the most critical aspect in the operation of sports centers. The customer aspect followed as the second most important aspect. Internal operation was considered the third most important aspect while innovation and learning were less emphasized. According to the above findings, the Taipei City Government was advised to construct an effective and comprehensive assessment indicators for evaluating sports center performance; to establish a mechanism to enforce contracts. On the other hand, sports center operating bodies were advised to enhance service staff training and become actively involved in community activities to expand the number of users. Operating bodies were also advised to compile comprehensive reports to keep track of the services provided. In terms of future researchers, differences between internal and external operating bodies can be compared or the factor analysis approach can be applied to conduct research based on index and statistics.