The New Public Management in hybrid settings: New challenges for performance measures

Abstract

This study questions whether Performance Measurement Systems (PMSs) defined under the New Public Management (NPM) logic fit the needs of hybrid settings where inter-organizational relationships exist between multiple actors in charge of service delivery. After outlining the key characteristics of an NPM-based PMS and its limitations in hybrid settings, an exploratory case study was carried out on a public network in charge of delivering a local public transport service. The network was particularly appropriate, as it initially endorsed an NPM-based PMS. Findings show problems in using the PMS and adapting the model, which led to the development of new features and requirements. Using a theoretical triangulation, it was possible to draw a more general insight into the characteristics of a PMS in a hybrid setting, here called a relational and participative PMS.

Keywords:

• performance measures
• hybrids
• public networks

Notes

1. In Italy, in terms of administration, central government is organized locally into Regional administrations, further divided into smaller territorial areas called Provinces and Municipalities.