International Strategies and Techniques for Future Local Government: Practical Aspects Towards Innovation and Reform

With citizens demanding more of public services and employees desiring more self-fulfillment, far-reaching changes must be made in municipal administrations. An increasing number of cities in Germany and abroad are experimenting with new concepts of management and organization to reform their administrations and convert them into modern public service companies. In order to compile various experiences with reform made at an international level, as well as to explore and document innovative examples worldwide, the Bertelsmann Foundation has founded the international network "Cities of Tomorrow." This book presents initial results of the project, analyzed by practical experts in the field. It provides insight into the following areas of "new public management:" changes in organization and methods, quality management, human resource management, information technology, citizen involvement, strategic planning, alternative services, and competition.