In 2003, the review of the Austrian Objective 3 Programme (ESF, 2000-2006) focused on the evaluation of TEPs (Evaluation of the European Social Fund 2000-2006, Austrian Objective 3 Programme, priority 6. WIFO, 2003).
The aim of the evaluation was to clarify successes, potentials and obstacles in order to improve the efficiency of TEPs. Additionally, different TEP approaches to achieve their goals, and their advantages and disadvantages were reviewed. In general, the evaluation stated that the TEPs contributed to a better coherence of objectives related to labour market and economic policies as well as to an improved effectiveness, efficiency and transparency in labour market policy.
The evaluation also made clear that the TEPs should further expand and reinforce their co-operations in order to effectively develop the alliances further. Major recommendations are implemented with the help of the national consolidation process, called "STEPs". At the ninth TEP Co-ordination Meeting in 2004, all TEPs agreed upon strengthening the concept stability and functional plausibility of the TEPs. This should contribute towards ensuring that the pacts continue to work constructively after 2006.
The federal Co-ordination Unit of the TEPs organises several workshops in order to accompany and support the pacts in their clarification of roles and functions as well as the establishment of an improved documentation system during 2004-2006. A brief description of the consolidation process STEPs can be downloaded in German language here (pdf, 75kb). For more information to the consolidation process please go to TEPs & Consolidation.
For additional information in German please visit TEPs & Evaluierung.