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CHAPTER TWELVE: Implementation

Study

Chapter Summary

Chapter 12 looks at the study of implementation, that is, the process and results of government programs. Defining success and failure, understanding the changing goals throughout the process, and selecting standards such as efficiency and accountability are all aspects of implementation. Uncertainty, not enough money or staff, organizational problems, inconsistent leadership, and dependence on other levels of government are factors that can hurt successful implementation.

Many problems arise when implementing grants, rules, and tax breaks offered by the federal government. Contracting out can provide advantages such as cost reduction but also may bring disadvantages such as corruption. Feedback, whether gained through formal program evaluation or other methods, is a key to effective implementation.