This study provides insights into knowledge transfer
and organizational learning in implementing recent
public sector reform in Victorian local government. Best Value was introduced by the Bracks Labor
government in 1999 following initiatives of a
modernisation program in the UK. The program s
primary objective is alignment of service delivery
with local needs; and, ensuring local authorities
respond to constituents by providing avenues for
feedback and participation in shaping their
communities. The study documents how organizational
development practitioners make Best Value operational
and resolve every day concerns. The Alchemic
Life-Cycle is a grounded theory explaining transition
from a prior management regime - based on market
competition principles, to Best Value. Practicing
Alchemy conceptualises the basic social process
explaining how inevitable uncertainties, accompanying
shifts in political and intellectual understandings
of public sector management, are routinely dealt
with. Findings indicate service quality can only be
adequately conceptualised in the context of the
historical, geographical and political legacies of
the local authorities concerned.
and organizational learning in implementing recent
public sector reform in Victorian local government. Best Value was introduced by the Bracks Labor
government in 1999 following initiatives of a
modernisation program in the UK. The program s
primary objective is alignment of service delivery
with local needs; and, ensuring local authorities
respond to constituents by providing avenues for
feedback and participation in shaping their
communities. The study documents how organizational
development practitioners make Best Value operational
and resolve every day concerns. The Alchemic
Life-Cycle is a grounded theory explaining transition
from a prior management regime - based on market
competition principles, to Best Value. Practicing
Alchemy conceptualises the basic social process
explaining how inevitable uncertainties, accompanying
shifts in political and intellectual understandings
of public sector management, are routinely dealt
with. Findings indicate service quality can only be
adequately conceptualised in the context of the
historical, geographical and political legacies of
the local authorities concerned.