| This research uses Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to evaluate bank branch performance in seven national branch networks within one geographic region operated by a multi-national financial services corporation ("The Bank"). In agreement with the focus of other measurement techniques at The Bank, the analysis was conducted in two dimensions: profitability and productivity. Domestic models evaluate branches within their own country; only efficient branches are included in a regional model that identifies the efficient branches and countries within the region as a whole. This was a unique opportunity because all the branches are owned by The Bank, which imposes its management philosophy equally on all of its subsidiaries. Examining branches providing standardized products and services, operating under shared corporate values and goals, and using identical information systems, removes managerial and corporate disparity. The differences in results can then be attributed to a combination of branch management and country-related effects. |
