Handbook of Public Administration, 3rd Edition

Part 4

Managing for Public Performance

The chapters in part 4 put the spotlight on the bottom line: public performance. Performance measurement and program evaluation have become powerful tools for promoting effectiveness. Achieving high performance is about more than measurement and evaluation, however. High performance also depends on thinking and managing strategically, using public service to direct and inspire staff, and attracting and engaging a diverse workforce. In light of growing complexity and the rapidity of change, high performance also rests with managing collaborations and organizational change processes.

Regardless of how one identifies public administration, contemporary constituents agree on one thing: public administration ...