Developing a Performance Measurement Framework

Times Square Arts, the public art program of the Times Square Alliance, presents leading contemporary art and performances to Times Square’s 400,000 daily visitors; cultivating the creativity, energy, and edge that has made Times Square a national icon. The Capstone team was engaged to develop a performance measurement framework in order for Time Square Arts to better evaluate its successes in the short- and long-term. The Capstone team first outlined the Times Square Arts theory of change; conducted an extensive literature review; interviewed the leaders of national and international public art programs, funders of public art, and key stakeholders; and through a process evaluation, developed a narrative for past art projects. The performance measurement framework will allow Times Square Arts to collect key information about its art projects and program impact, enhance strategic decision-making, bolster support, and paint a detailed picture of how to assist in fulfilling Times Square Alliance’s mission.