Books in the Public Affairs and Policy Administration Series series

Including an examination of the 2008 financial crisis, this book looks at how the US political systems fares when put under pressure

In their quest to improve government performance, managers must overcome a multitude of problems, from entrenched procedures and employee concerns to citizen complaints and political pressure for results. This title shows that cultural roots not only determine the way work is performed, but also dictate the ultimate success of reform efforts.

How should a manager handle different accountability expectations? This book tackles issues such as strategies of centralization and decentralization, coordination with states and localities, leadership, and program design, while using the suitable analogy of a juggler to show how managers must keep in the air disparate demands and developments.

Is the public getting a good deal when the government contracts out the delivery of goods and services? This title explors what happens when public sector organizations - at the federal, state and local levels - form working relationships with other agencies, communities, non-profit organizations and private firms through contracts.