Innovation in the Public Sector: An Introductory Overview

Abstract

This short introductory chapter attempts to do two things. First, it offers a few general observations that are designed to put innovation into some kind of conceptual and historical perspective. Secondly, it draws, from the observations, some guidelines – or at the very least, pointers – for the kind of research that is more likely to yield a better understanding of public sector innovation. This exercise is intended to set the scene for the more detailed, expert and nuanced contributions that follow. It also lays out some markers that can be taken up again towards the end of the book.