DUE DATE: 09 OCTOBER 2023
NB: INCLUDE A TABLE OF CONTENTS USING THE HEADINGS AND
SUBHEADINGS (BOLD) OF THE ESSAY. MAIN ESSAY AND EXTRA ESSAY (SAME
TOPIC. CHOOSE ONE.
, 1. Introduction
In recent decades, the concept of New Public Management (NPM) has gained prominence as a
framework for transforming public sector operations. This essay aims to critically analyze NPM
by addressing three key aspects: the appropriateness of modeling public sector transactions on
private sector principles, the main criticisms against NPM, and providing pertinent examples to
support the discussion.
The concept of New Public Management (NPM) emerged in the 1980s as a response to the
perceived inefficiencies of traditional bureaucratic models in the public sector. This portfolio
aims to provide an overview of NPM, evaluating whether transactions in the public sector
should be modeled on those in the private sector, highlighting the main criticisms against NPM,
and offering relevant examples to support the arguments presented.
2. Transactions in the Public Sector: Private Sector Modeling
The idea of applying private sector practices to the public sector has been a subject of debate.
Advocates argue that adopting business-oriented approaches can enhance efficiency,
responsiveness, and customer service in government operations (Hood, 1991). For instance,
introducing competitive tendering for services and utilizing performance-based contracts can
lead to cost savings and improved service delivery (Pollitt & Bouckaert, 2011). The idea of
modeling public sector transactions after those in the private sector has been a subject of
extensive debate. Advocates argue that incorporating market-oriented practices can enhance
efficiency and responsiveness in public service delivery (Hood, 1991). For instance, introducing
competition and performance-based incentives can drive productivity and innovation, leading to
better outcomes for citizens.
However, it is crucial to recognize that public and private sectors have distinct objectives and
accountability structures. Public services are obligated to serve the collective good, ensuring
equitable access and protection of vulnerable populations. Attempting to wholly emulate private
sector practices can potentially lead to neglecting these vital social responsibilities (Osborne &
Gaebler, 1992). Furthermore, public services often deal with complex, non-market goods, such
as healthcare and education, where outcomes are not solely driven by profit margins.
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller lwazimthembu10. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $9.42. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.