Evaluating Resource Efficiency in the Public Sector through Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA): A Practical Application and Bibliometric Insight
- 1 Faculty of Economics, University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- 2 Faculty of Economics, University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- 3 Center for Quality, University of Tuzla, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Abstract
Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), as a non-parametric method for measuring efficiency, serves as a powerful tool for detecting inefficient resource allocation in the public sector, including healthcare, education, energy, and public administration. This paper aims to demonstrate how to identify resource inefficiency in the public sector and provide a systematic bibliometric overview of DEA application in resource efficiency assessment. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research focused on resource efficiency using the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method, based on data collected from the Dimensions research platform and database. A total of 130 documents published between 1996 and 2025 were analyzed. Furthermore, using primary data on asset values, number of employees, total expenditures, and total revenues from public enterprises managing Forest Resources in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we demonstrate a practical approach to detecting resource inefficiency through DEA application. Given the persistent fiscal constraints and increasing demands for accountability in public resource management, particularly in transition economies, systematic efficiency assessment has become critical for sustainable development and evidence-based policy-making.
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