Includes bibliographical references (p. 425-461) and index.

Part 1. The dynamic context of public organizations -- The challenge of effective public organization and management -- Understanding the study of organizations : a historical review -- What makes public organizations distinctive -- Analyzing the environment of public organizations -- The impact of political power and public policy -- Part 2. Key dimensions of organizing and managing -- Organizational goals and effectiveness -- Formulating and achieving purpose : power, strategy, and decision making -- Organizational structure, design, technology, and information technology -- Understanding people in public organizations : values and motives -- Understanding people in public organizations : theories of work motivation and work-related attitudes -- Leadership, managerial roles, and organizational culture -- Teamwork : understanding communication and conflict in groups -- Part 3. Strategies for managing and improving public organizations -- Managing organizational change and development -- Advancing effective management in the public sector.