Policy Tools Theory and Implementation Networks: Understanding State Enterprise Zone Partnerships
Author(s)
Blair, Robert
Abstract
The theoretical shortcomings of implementation research can be explained in part by changes in the methods that administrators employ in program execution. Most notably, public-service delivery no longer remains the exclusive and direct responsibility of employees on the government payroll. Rather, implementation often takes place indirectly; public service is now delivered through intricate administrative links among public, private, and nonprofit organizations, which results in third-party relationships and complex organizational networks. In fact, these program delivery networks have arguably become the dominant feature of the new policy implementation model.
