Managing complexity in the public services

the long version

This text is an introduction to complexity theory and its application to public services management. In a clear and comprehensible manner it:. Argues that the complexity of the public policy process limits the usefulness of the 'new public management' approach. Challenges management techniques used in key areas of the public sector, such as performance management, staff development leadership, strategic management and the use of IT. Proposes alternative approaches that are based on a correct understanding of the disorder in the policy process. The difficult concepts of complexity theory are pr.