MPA 8260 - Alternative Service Delivery

State and local governments are continually under pressure to provide more cost efficient and effective services. As a result, public officials in Minnesota and across the United States are seeking alternative ways to deliver services. This course examines the theoretical underpinnings, implementation methods, and track records of various alternatives to public service delivery. Topics include collaborations, consolidation, privatization, contracting, private and nonprofit partnerships, and the use of market incentives and competition to improve service delivery. We will also examine a variety of policy areas where alternative means to service delivery have been analyzed or implemented including criminal justice, information technology, environmental services, education, health care, welfare, and transportation.

Credits: 4