BRIDGEBUILDING FOR A NEW VISION OF GOVERNMENT

Abstract

AbstractThe authors, who each have significant experience “improving and monitoring government,” explain their concept of “Bridgebuilders,” people who “transform governance: from hierarchy to networks, from authority to collaboration, from process to mission, and from fuzzy responsibility to a laser‐like focus on results.” They note that in order for government to be more effective and solve problems, they can’t do it alone, that “every effective solution requires the skills of people in many organizations.” They identify ten keys to solutions, which in their words are 1. Knock down barriers; 2. Seek mutual advantage; 3. Nurture private partners; 4. Build trustworthy networks; 5. Grow catalytic government; 6. Focus on outcomes; 7. Make data the language; 8. Redefine accountability; 9. Cultivate cross‐boundary leaders; 10. Make the exceptional routine. The article “focuses on nurturing private partners to help conduct the public’s business.” The authors detail the story of Alan Graham, who founded the Austin, Texas‐based nonprofit Mobile Loaves & Fishes, in 1984. This relates to strategies outlined in the article such as “Convene the important players,” “Rely on third‐party entities,” “Provide greater regulatory flexibility,” “Encourage the free flow of ideas between sectors,” and “Facilitate the cross‐sector pursuit of public purpose.”