ABSTRACT
In order to optimize co-production processes, it is important that the public employees have an idea of who the co-producers are, what expectations of the collaboration they have, and what motivates them to engage. Back in 2002, Alford took a different approach and distinguished among three types of co-producers: clients, citizens, and volunteers. An alternative way to look at co-producers' activities is to analyze the extent to which co-producers are able to produce the service themselves, without the regular producers' input. John Alford's contribution to understanding co-producers' motivations originates in the distinction among clients, citizens, and volunteers and the expectations regarding each of the roles. Some empirical studies support the idea that public employees can encourage citizens to co-produce by offering training programs and by providing the necessary resources for the co-production process to happen. Public organizations should invest more in understanding citizens' expectations and, particularly, managing external efficacy.
