The Evolution of Public Management Theories and Their Contemporary Applications in Policy and Research

Summary

This paper presents a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of public management theories, tracing their transformation from classical bureaucratic models to contemporary digital governance frameworks. The study examines how public administration has historically responded to complex governance challenges through theoretical paradigms such as Weberian bureaucracy, scientific management, New Public Management (NPM), governance networks, and digital-era governance. Each paradigm is contextualized within the political, economic, and technological shifts that shaped its emergence, including industrialization, globalization, neoliberal reforms, and digital transformation. The paper critically assesses the strengths and limitations of each model, highlighting how NPM’s emphasis on market efficiency gave way to governance theories that prioritize collaboration, public value, and participatory decision-making. It also explores the integration of digital technologies such as AI, big data, and blockchain in reshaping policy delivery and citizen engagement. Contemporary applications of these theories are discussed in the context of climate governance, health crises, smart cities, and ethical digital governance. The analysis emphasizes the enduring relevance of public management theories in enhancing transparency, resilience, and innovation in modern policymaking. Ultimately, the paper argues for a hybrid governance model that balances efficiency, inclusivity, and accountability, reflecting the evolving complexity of public sector challenges. By bridging historical insights with forward-looking strategies, the study offers practical and theoretical guidance for policymakers, researchers, and public administrators navigating 21st-century governance.