Complexity and the Public Sector: The Key Ideas of Complex Responsive Processes of Relating and Their Recent Development

New Public Management (NPM) methods have dominated public sector organizations since the early 1990s, emphasizing performance, metrics, transparency, and marketization. This book explores the tensions that arise in institutions where NPM methods prevail, introduces different ways of thinking about managing for the public good, and offers a radical challenge to the dominant assumptions regarding professional communities of practice. The third book in the Complexity and Management series provides practical judgment and insights from senior managers and consultants to help manage in everyday public sector organizational situations. It is an ideal resource for students, managers, and consultants in the public sector.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 26 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Since the early 1990s, public sector organizations have been grappling with a phenomenon known as New Public Management (NPM), which promotes performance, metrics, transparency, and marketization. This book delves into the complexities that arise within institutions where NPM methods dominate, offering alternative perspectives on managing for the public good. It challenges prevailing assumptions about the potential for professional communities of practice to change their working practices.

In this third installment of the Complexity and Management series, esteemed experts come together to share their experiences and provide practical guidance on managing in everyday public sector organizational situations. The book offers a comprehensive introduction to complexity and public sector management, featuring real-world narratives that illustrate concrete dilemmas in the workplace. It concludes with a chapter that synthesizes the practical and theoretical implications of a complexity perspective.

With a blend of theoretical foundations and practical insights from senior managers and consultants, this book serves as an invaluable resource for students pursuing management or executive leadership programs in the public sector. It is also a valuable tool for managers and consultants working within and consulting to the sector.

By exploring the tensions and challenges associated with NPM, this book offers a fresh perspective on public sector management, empowering professionals to navigate the complexities of the modern public sector and strive for positive change.

Weight: 364g
Dimension: 155 x 232 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367569204