Discussion week 8

.docx

School

Liberty University**We aren't endorsed by this school

Course

HLSC 600

Subject

Management

Date

Jan 15, 2025

Pages

Uploaded by DeanElementKangaroo58

Challenges with Implementing New Management TechniquesPublic sector managers are more interested in implementing management techniques from the private sector although they may face some challenges. Methods, including performance-based budgeting, customer-focused strategies, and efficiency-driven models, can enhance accountability and responsiveness, but the differences between public and private organizations create significant implementation challenges (Milakovich & Gordon, 2023).One of the main challenges is the existing differences in organizational objectives between both sectors. Public sector agencies are mission-driven, emphasizing service delivery and societal equity, whereas private entities focus on profitability and market competition (Milakovich & Gordon, 2023). Consequently, management techniques prioritizing efficiency and cost-cutting in the private sector may conflict with public sector goals, such as fairness, accessibility, and social responsibility (Arnaboldi et al., 2015).Another challenge is the complexity of the public sector. Public organizations work with regulations, oversight mechanisms, and political pressures that can limit their flexibility and autonomy (Milakovich & Gordon, 2023). They must give results to diverse stakeholders with conflicting interests, making it difficult to implement management techniques that may be suitable for more homogenous private sector environments (Arnaboldi et al., 2015). Moreover, the public sector can resist change due to bureaucratic structures and established norms. Employees may fear the unknown or view private sector methods as incompatible with their work processes. Furthermore, political interests can interfere with policies, as public sector decisions often involve a wider range of stakeholders with conflicting objectives (Milakovich & Gordon, 2023).

Milakovich and Gordon (2023) argue that the public sector is also limited in resources, which can pose a challenge to the adoption of the private sector’s management techniques. The public sector often has a limited budget, which can challenge investment in new systems, training, or technology. Additionally, private sector management techniques rely heavily on quantifiable outcomes. However, many public sector outcomes, such as social welfare improvements or public safety, are difficult to measure in concrete terms. Arnaboldi et al. (2015) argue that applying performance metrics to these areas can oversimplify complex public issues and potentially incentivize undesirable behaviors to meet superficial targets.To address these difficulties, public managers can use other strategies. For example, fostering stakeholder engagement ensures that policies align with public values and gain support. Transparent communication about the purpose and expected benefits of new management techniques can reduce resistance. Additionally, strategies that balance efficiency with equity can help adapt private sector management techniques to the public sector (Rosenbloom et al., 2022). Biblical principles also offer guidance for public managers facing these challenges. Proverbs 11:14 states, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” (King James Bible, 1769/2017). This verse underscores the importance of collaborative leadership and stakeholder inclusion in navigating complex reforms.ReferencesArnaboldi, M., Lapsley, I., & Steccolini, I. (2015). Performance Management in the Public Sector: The Ultimate Challenge. Financial Accountability & Management in Governments, Public Services, and Charities., 31(1), 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1111/faam.12049

King James Bible. (2017). King James Bible Online. https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/ (Original work published 1769)Milakovich, M., & Gordon, G. (2023). Public Administration in America (12th ed.). Boston MA, Wadson. Rosenbloom, D. H., Kravchuk, R. S., & Clerkin, R. M. (2022). Public administration: Understanding management, politics, and law in the public sector. Routledge.