State governments are spending a lot, accomplishing too little, and failing to meet their responsibilities to the public. In this book, John Brandl argues that the usual remedies for ineffective government bureaucracy--cutting or adding to budgets, urging civil servants to become more entrepreneurial, hiring tougher managers, or appointing smarter bureaucrats--won't provide substantial, long-term improvement. Examining public schools Brandl points out that although real spending per student has tripled in the last 30 years and the average class size has shrunk from 27 to 17, educational performance "has become a national disgrace." He provides alternative policies that rely on harnessing self-interest through competition and incentives and encouraging affiliations that inspire community to forge a strong connection between spending and results.

The official organ of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (called earlier North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools).

In 2003, the National Commission on the Public Service, chaired by Paul Volcker, issued a report detailing problems within the federal government today and recommending changes in its organization, leadership, and operations. This book suggests practical ways to implement the recommendations and defines a research agenda for the future. Thirteen essays address the primary problem areas identified by the Volcker Commission, and the commission report itself is included.

June and Dec. issues contain listings of periodicals.