Natasja Holtzhausen

A practical introduction to Public Management will have a vocational approach; the text would be accessible and practice-based, whilst also embedding knowledge of relevant theories and principles that underpin the operational elements of the public sector profession. This book would be supportive to students grounding in the subject area both theoretically and practically, with the right balance across those elements. A practical introduction to Public Management would actively build skills and knowledge-base, and a real-life understanding, to prepare the student for progression through the undergraduate students, leading to employment in the public sector.

What is Public Administration? How does Public Management operate? Who are the key role-players? What are the principles, and how are these applied practically in the developmental context of South Africa? Addressing the broad topics that form the foundations of Public Administration and Management in South Africa, this text introduces and critically explores all foundational and functional aspects of the development, theories, principles, concepts, approaches and structure of public administration. Key topic areas are accessed in dedicated chapters to provide a solid grounding in the discipline. Students are orientated in the theoretical foundations of public administration and the practical implementation of public management in developmental South Africa, across local, provincial and national government spheres. Covering the role and function of core aspects of public administration and management, topics addressed include: public decision-making; service delivery and policy implementation; leadership and control; human resources management; public financial management; and ethics in the public sector. An expertly designed pedagogical framework supports and develops important academic skills such as critical thinking, practical application and data interpretation. Presented in a real, applied and visual manner, this engaging text is the essential introduction for all students of BAdmin, BA, BSocSci or BCom degrees in public administration and public management.