Public-Private Partnerships and Network Governance

Abstract

This article examines public-private partnership in light of the New Public Management and New Public Governance, showing the effect of the overlap and mix of elements generated by these paradigms. For purposes of the article, PPP is defined as a unit of analysis of a network, with particular reference to processes of coproduction and cocreation. The study explores these ideal types in the strategic planning of several Italian cities, differentiating PPPs on the basis of degree of participant involvement, a distinction based on such explanatory variables as the structure of the decision-making process, legitimacy, transparency, and accountability. Broadly speaking, the article seeks to understand how relationships among public and private partners affect partnership sustainability. The analysis highlights the prevalence of PPPs oriented toward coproduction.