Ambidextrous practices in public service organizations: innovation and optimization tensions in Dutch water authorities

Abstract

For public service organizations (PSOs) it is essential to be able to simultaneously
\noptimize and innovate policies, processes and services. This article explores how
\nPSOs shape these dual practices by examining optimization and innovation practices
\nin eight Dutch regional water authorities (RWAs) using focus groups. It uncovers
\nmutually reinforcing differences in culture, strategy and management leading to
\ndifferent ambidextrous configurations. In low ambidextrous RWAs a legalistic taskorientation
\ngoes along with a transactional management style and focus on optimization
\nonly. In high ambidextrous RWAs a societal value-orientation, integrative
\nstrategies, and a more transformational management style lead to more embedded
\ninnovation practices.