"This book analyzes different types of virtual communities, proposing Knowledge Management as a solid theoretical ground for approaching their management"--Provided by publisher.

Research on the relationship between technology dynamics and Public Administration (PA) began some years ago and was inspired by the realization that technological development has produced a far-reaching interaction with PA. It is emphasized how technological development and PA influence each other, as investments are managed by public agencies. There are some branches of PA that heavily rely on technology for their activities; such as the defense sector, the space agencies, the agencies for environmental protection, and those that are responsible for food control and safety and so on. Some technological advancements have found fertile ground in PA. The impact of technologies such as ICT or space technologies on PA is from a political and social point of view the most important. The adoption of such technologies can make it possible to offer more services to citizens. The adoption of new technologies can also enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the bureaucratic apparatus and can even influence positively the mechanisms of political representation. The most interesting applications of technology are those relating to earth observations because these are able to strengthen en

This book provides information on government performance in fostering open and inclusive policy making in 25 countries.

Public sector modernization is no longer an option, but a necessity. It will help governments respond to changing societal needs and maintain competitiveness in an uncertain international environment. Modernising Government takes stock of the past two decades of public sector modernization in OECD countries. The last twenty years have witnessed an influx of new ideas and initiatives... but have these new ideas worked in practice? This book assesses failures and successes and identifies the challenges ahead. The book examines certain selected key public management policy levers of reform such as: open government public sector performance modernizing accountability and control reallocation and restructuring modernizing public employment the use of market mechanisms This report will be of great interest to all those involved with public management policy.

This review assesses the performance of Colombian agriculture over the last two decades, evaluates Colombian agricultural policy reforms and provides recommendations to address key challenges in the future.

This book describes the state of the art of tourism planning and management in national parks and protected areas. It also provides guidelines for best practice in tourism operations. Other objectives are to: Describe case studies and guidelines that contribute to conservation of biological diversity; consider the role of local communities within or near these areas; outline the development of tourism infrastructure and services; discuss visitor management; provide guidelines to enhance the quality of the tourism experience. The focus is global and the book will appeal to both academics and practitioners.