Understanding and Managing Public Organizations

book was in great condition just as represented on site. Promptly delivered. Very satisfied.

Used as a textbook for MPA program. Good overview of PA theories and preconceptions. Does not address the need to deconstruct social norms to focus on desired outcomes. Theory and studies are reviewed in this textbook. The chapters are short and sufficient). However, it is not completely thorough and detailed. Will I keep it as a resource - probably. Will I use it in the future (in daily practice) - probably not.

This textbook was required for my Masters of Public Administration class in Organizational Management and Change. The author did extensive research into the concepts and provides a wealth of information. He does have a tendency to preview chapters from within other chapters; this is somewhat distracting because you're never sure when you will get all the information.

As a PA student, I realized that this text was essential to the basic understanding of Public Administration. It gives basic theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to practice contemporary public management. Each chapter builds from the next. I used this text book as one of my FIRST resources when I began the Public Administration curriculum and I found it very helpful. It helped me comprehend how to improve the overall effectiveness of governmental operations with concepts such as "value driven management". It's a winner!