The Whole-of-Government Approach – Regulation, Performance, and Public-Sector Reform

Abstract

In this paper we first discuss «whole-of-government» initiatives as a reaction to the negative effects of NPM reforms such as structural devolution, performance management, and «single-purpose organizations». Second, we examine what is meant by a «whole-of-government» approach. Third, we discuss how we might interpret the concept of whole-of-government in analytical terms and the various empirical manifestations of this in different countries and within the same country. We contrast a structural approach with a cultural perspective, but also draw on a myth-based perspective. Fourth, we address the dynamics of whole-of-government measures. Fifth, we focus on what is typical for this approach as a way of regulating performance, and what the effects on performance might be, i.e. how might the approach work in practice? Finally we discuss some lessons from the whole-of-government movement. Although the paper is primarily a conceptual and explorative one, it uses examples from Australia, New Zealand, and some other countries to illustrate the points it makes.

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