The study identifies the difficulties that can arise when conducting an assessment of the effectiveness of public administration at the national and local levels. It defines the purpose of such an assessment, establishes the fundamental requirements and principles. The advantages and disadvantages of various methods of assessing the effectiveness of public administration are considered, the necessity of their consistent application and competent combination is substantiated. It emphasizes the importance of the correct selection of quantitative evaluation indicators with the mandatory establishment of requirements for qualitative parameters of their achievement, as well as monitoring of possible consequences and adjustment if necessary.