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Does Stewardship Theory Provide a Viable Alternative to Control-Fixated Performance Management?

Author

Listed:
  • Jacob Torfing

    (Department of Social Sciences and Business, Roskilde University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Tina Øllgaard Bentzen

    (Department of Social Sciences and Business, Roskilde University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

Abstract

Stewardship theory provides an interesting alternative to agency theory, which in the recent New Public Management era supported the introduction of rigorous performance management systems based on generalized mistrust in and control of public employees. However, we lack empirical validation of the feasibility and positive outcomes of the new forms of trust-based management recommended by stewardship theory. As such, there are few examples of alternative ways of boosting the motivation of public employees that can serve as beacons for public service organizations (PSOs) eager to find new ways of motivating their staff to create public value for the users of public services and society as a whole. This article aims to remedy this problem by exploring a seemingly successful empirical case of trust-based management to see whether the core principles of stewardship theory apply and how new management practices may influence the motivation and well-being of the employees, the perceived satisfaction and involvement of the users, and overall organizational performance, including cost efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Jacob Torfing & Tina Øllgaard Bentzen, 2020. "Does Stewardship Theory Provide a Viable Alternative to Control-Fixated Performance Management?," Administrative Sciences, MDPI, vol. 10(4), pages 1-19, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jadmsc:v:10:y:2020:i:4:p:86-:d:439300
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    3. Jesús Fernando Bejarano-Auqui, 2024. "Model of Business Management Based on the Theories of Management Thinking of the Mypes," Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, Richtmann Publishing Ltd, vol. 13, January.
    4. Javier Garcia-Lacalle & Lourdes Torres, 2021. "Financial Reporting Quality and Online Disclosure Practices in Spanish Governmental Agencies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(5), pages 1-21, February.

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