Elements of effective public management: administrative models, reforms, a continuous searchfor effectiveness

Purpose This study aims to analyze public administration models (i.e. traditional model, the new public management and the post-new public management), and public structure reforms in South America to identify critical elements for effective public management. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, the case study method, as well as archival and pattern-matching research methodologies were adopted to determine the elements of effective public management. Findings The results of the investigation indicate that public management mechanisms must be connected to the country’s political will, expressed in a medium- or long-term national vision developed with the participation of various sectors of society and accompanied by the corresponding planning and budgeting for the same period as the national vision, along with the implementation of mechanisms for evaluation, coordination, transparency and accountability. Research limitations/implications The findings cannot be generalized beyond the dynamics of each specific case. Practical implications The findings of this comparative study will benefit not only government officials but also the whole society. Social implications The findings of this research will serve as a guide for the design of public structure reform programs. Originality/value This study uses an original comparative framework to ascertain the elements that make for effective public management.