New models of governance and public services

Our public services are constantly evolving. They must meet the changing needs of society within available public resources – and they must take advantage of the opportunities provided by new skills, knowledge and technology. Our research explores the latest thinking in the design, delivery and governance of public services.

Projects in this theme

Arm's-length bodies
Arm's length bodies (ALBs) are a contested part of the government landscape. We have conducted research on ALBs and with the Public Chairs Forum are exploring practical ways to improve their governance.
Choice, competition and public service markets
The principles of choice and competition have underpinned successive governments’ public service reform agendas in an effort to improve quality, efficiency and value for money across a range of public services
Elected mayors
The Institute is examining the likely impact of decentralising political control through the introduction of directly elected mayors and police and crime commissioners, alongside wider developments in local and regional government.
Public service innovations
Our research examines some of the latest developments as public servants strive to find new ways of delivering public services more effectively.