ABSTRACT
Throughout this book we have discussed various strategies and approaches to effectively measure government performance, to ensure accountability, and to meaningfully involve citizens in the deliberative process. We have also identified the various problems and dilemmas associated with improving government performance, holding people and organizations accountable for results, and meaningfully involving citizens in the deliberative and decision-making processes of government. In this chapter we will explore the possibility of achieving effective governance-a more responsive, efficient, inclusive, accountable, high-per forming government-through the integration of the concepts presented in this book. A conceptual model for improving outcomes and results, based on a framework that integrates and strengthens the individual concepts of measurement, accountability, and participation is presented. These concepts are mutually reinforcing and when they are successfully integrated, better measures of performance can be created, accountability systems that acknowledge the broader accountability environment can emerge, and meaningful roles for citizens to shape and evaluate public sector programs can be developed. According to Frederickson, “The effective public administration of the future should be intimately tied to citizenship, the citizenry generally, and to the effectiveness of public managers who work directly with the citizenry.”
