Networks and efficient policy implementation: Insights from cohesion policy

Evaluation ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (4) ◽  
pp. 411-429
Author(s):  
Dorine Boumans ◽  
Martin Ferry
Keyword(s):  
Policy Implementation ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Network Governance ◽  
Efficient Implementation ◽  
Cohesion Policy ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Potential Benefits

Network-based arrangements are increasingly used for policy implementation. Arguments are made for the potential benefits of this approach, but evidence of their efficiency is inconclusive. Recent methodological innovations, incorporating social network analysis, are building the evidence base. This article contributes to a growing area of study by exploring the relationship between the efficient implementation of European Union cohesion policy projects, and the characteristics of the networks involved in the implementation process. The research combined quantitative analysis of implementation of projects in Scotland in 2007–2013 and semi-structured interviews. The research finds that the involvement of many partners can have a negative impact on implementation. Rather, the strategic position of key actors in the network is important for efficient implementation. The results stress the importance of network governance and the role of key agents as nodes that bridge structural gaps and facilitate exchange of knowledge and resources.

The Limits of Regionalization: The Intergovernmental Struggle over EU Cohesion Policy in the Czech Republic

2017 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 863-884 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael Baun ◽  
Dan Marek
Keyword(s):  
Czech Republic ◽  
Policy Implementation ◽  
Domestic Politics ◽  
Intergovernmental Relations ◽  
Cohesion Policy ◽  
Central State ◽  
The Czech Republic ◽  
Structural Funds ◽  
Funds Management

What explains national variation in the implementation of EU Cohesion Policy, in particular when it comes to the role of regions in Structural Funds management? This is an important question because, as some scholars have claimed, Cohesion Policy has the potential to empower regions and promote regionalization in Europe. Particularly in the new CEE member states, where relations between central and subnational authorities often remain unsettled or in a state of flux, the ability of regional authorities to exercise a substantial role in Cohesion Policy implementation could significantly impact intergovernmental relations and the balance of power between the central state and regions. This article examines this question in the case of one CEE member state, the Czech Republic, where the role of regions in Structural Funds management has been a particularly contentious issue over the course of three programming periods beginning in 2004. The article argues that the standard explanation in the literature for variation in Cohesion Policy implementation—national constitutional arrangements and governmental traditions—cannot explain the change of implementation systems in the Czech Republic because these remained constant over the three programming periods under investigation. Instead, the Czech case suggests the primary importance of regional administrative capacity and performance as a factor affecting Cohesion Policy implementation, while domestic politics and EU-level influences play important though secondary roles.

Change management overlooked: physician perspectives on EHR implementation

2019 ◽  
Vol 34 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-36
Author(s):  
Michele Heath ◽  
Tracy H. Porter
Keyword(s):  
Human Factors ◽  
Change Management ◽  
Change Process ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Healthcare Organizations ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Physician Perspectives ◽  
Potential Benefits ◽  
Physician Resistance

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to gain understanding into the human factors which might impede the change process. Change is inevitable in contemporary organizations and particularly within the healthcare field with respect to information technology (IT). Regardless of the amount of literature surrounding change management process organizational leaders will often ignore the human factors associated with the introduction of new IT.Design/methodology/approachThis study sought to examine physician resistance surrounding the Electronic health record (EHR) change process through the lens of each of these three aspects of the Bovey and Hede (2001a) model through semi-structured interviews with physicians. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with physicians from hospitals within the Midwest.FindingsThe findings suggest that physicians have been impacted by the EHR change management system within their hospitals. Though each of the participants experienced different issues; it was clear from the data the change to an EHR system was disruptive to their day-to-day routines and caused various challenges. EHR change management research demonstrates physicians are resisting the change despite recognizing its potential benefits.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the change management literature by examining how physician resistance can have a negative impact on healthcare organizations during a precipitous technology change. The study also provides a unique understanding of how technology resistance can disrupt an organizational change process.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amina Jaffer ◽  
Anant Patel ◽  
John Hurst
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ◽  
Pulmonary Disease ◽  
Phenotypic Variability ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Chronic Obstructive ◽  
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ◽  
Potential Benefits ◽  
Learning Points

This chapter discusses the case of a 70-year-old man with his first presentation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This case is used as a basis to explore and describe the diagnosis, investigation, and management of this condition. The chapter includes the evidence base and relative guidelines that support current practice, as well as highlighting useful learning points and providing expert opinion. The role of lung volume reduction surgery is discussed, and its potential benefits in selected patients highlighted. Phenotypic variability within chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is increasingly recognized, and this is discussed, including the implications on current management and future research.

scholarly journals Implementation evaluation of staff support and wellbeing programmes at an academic health science centre during COVID-19: study protocol

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Barbora Krausova ◽  
Sam Nishanth Gnanapragasam ◽  
Len Demetriou ◽  
Alison Beck ◽  
Renata Pires-Yfantouda ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Study Participant ◽  
Implementation Strategies ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Health Science ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Staff Support ◽  
Academic Health ◽  
Staff Wellbeing

Abstract Background Evidence from previous pandemics as well as early evidence from COVID-19 suggest risk of adverse mental health and wellbeing outcomes for healthcare workers. In response to these concerns, healthcare systems and organisations rapidly established staff support and wellbeing programmes. While there is emerging literature related to the effectiveness of such interventions, what is less well understood and evaluated is the evidence base regarding how such programmes are implemented; what supports and hinders their implementation; and how or if they are maintained following the initial acute phase of the pandemic. This study addresses this gap by studying the implementation process of COVID-19-related staff wellbeing programmes in the three UK NHS Trusts that make up one of Europe’s largest academic health sciences centres, King’s Health Partners. Methods We will conduct a prospective, cross-sectional descriptive study using qualitative research methods and non-probability purposive sampling to identify a study participant group representative of the population and implementation activity of interest. We will conduct semi-structured interviews of between 30 minutes and one hour. We will identify theory-driven elements in the dataset using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (barriers and drivers), Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment Framework (timeline/chronology/evolution of the implementation and different issues at different times) and Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (implementation strategies). We will then identify indicators of these constructs within the dataset and report them, as well as their inter-relationships. Discussion Through this study we hope to better understand what factors hindered and enabled the implementation of three inter-linked staff support and wellbeing programmes, and how/to what extent have these programmes been sustained. We will also explore whether implementation science frameworks are applicable and beneficial in conceptualising and understanding crisis driven and rapidly implemented interventions, and in what ways, if any, they need to be adjusted when used in unprecedented circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

scholarly journals A survey of prostate cancer patients’ perceptions of the support they receive during radical radiotherapy: is there room for improvement?

2016 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 239-246 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hazel Clarke ◽  
Gemma Burke
Keyword(s):  
Prostate Cancer ◽  
Cancer Patients ◽  
Information Provision ◽  
Radical Radiotherapy ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Waiting Room ◽  
Single Centre Study ◽  
Potential Benefits ◽  
Radiotherapy Treatment

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to ascertain prostate cancer patients’ perceptions of the quality of physical and emotional support they receive as standard during their course of radiotherapy treatment.MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted on 13 patients undergoing radical radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer. Interviews were conducted between fractions 32 and 37 and data were analysed using the Giorgi method.ResultsA number of themes emerged from the data including, interestingly, the value of patients’ place on the ‘waiting room support’ with 46% finding this to be a positive aspect of their experience. On the whole, patients felt well supported during their treatment by both radiographers and fellow patients. However, the results highlighted areas for further improvements, particularly around bowel and bladder preparation.ConclusionsThis small single-centre study has highlighted the importance of good quality, timely information provision. Although patients were, for the most part very happy with the services they were being provided with, areas in need of development where also highlighted. If a more structured review process is to be further investigated then the role of the ‘review radiographer’ should be considered as part of this. The potential benefits of patient peer support is also worthy of further exploration.

scholarly journals Day Care for People with Dementia: A Qualitative Study Comparing Experiences from Norway and Scotland

Dementia ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 1393-1409 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne Marie M Rokstad ◽  
Louise McCabe ◽  
Jane M Robertson ◽  
Margit G Strandenæs ◽  
Signe Tretteteig ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Day Care ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Positive Outcomes ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Caregiver Support ◽  
Care Services ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Potential Benefits ◽  
Satisfaction With Services ◽  
Cross National

Potential benefits from day care attendance are reported in the literature for both people with dementia and caregivers, although the evidence-base is limited. The study aimed to explore and compare experiences of day care services for people with dementia as described by day care attendees and their caregivers in Norway and Scotland. Whereas day care receives prominence in Norway’s national dementia plan, Scotland does not highlight day care in its national dementia strategy. A qualitative cross-national comparative study was undertaken. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 people with dementia and 17 caregivers in Norway, and 19 people with dementia and 15 caregivers in Scotland. Data were analyzed thematically and comparatively to explore the experiences and outcomes of the participants. Findings indicate positive outcomes from day care for both people with dementia and caregivers. Satisfaction with services related to meaningful activities, getting out of the home, strengthening social connections and careful staff facilitation to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere. There were strong similarities in the content of services and experiences reported in the two countries. Some minor differences were noted, with caregiver support being an area of notable divergence in experiences. Specialist day care for people with dementia seems to provide important support and positive outcomes for people with dementia, and respite and reassurance for their caregivers. More research is needed to further explore the effect of day care designed for people with dementia both on the attendees and their caregivers.

The implementation process of alcohol policies in eight Swedish football clubs

2013 ◽  
Vol 113 (3) ◽  
pp. 196-215 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susanna Geidne ◽  
Mikael Quennerstedt ◽  
Charli Eriksson
Keyword(s):  
Policy Implementation ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Alcohol Policy ◽  
Policy Support ◽  
Common Belief ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Sports Clubs ◽  
Alcohol Policies ◽  
Football Clubs

PurposeAlcohol stands in an ambiguous relationship to sports, and there is a common belief that participation in sports prevents alcohol consumption. Although this is not always the case, sports clubs can be important settings for health promoting alcohol policy interventions .The purpose of this paper is to explore the process of implementing alcohol policies in eight football clubs in Sweden and, in particular, how the implementation process is conveyed in the clubs’ alcohol policy projects, the similarities and differences between this case study and Durlak and DuPre's implementation model and the recommendations for successful alcohol policy implementation in relation to the result.Design/methodology/approachIn total, 15 semi‐structured interviews on the subject of sports’ club alcohol policies were conducted with project leaders and board members from eight sports clubs. The interviews were analysed using Durlak and DuPre's model of factors affecting implementation processes.FindingsThe results show that almost all the factors in Durlak and DuPre's model were comprehensively manifested in the football clubs’ alcohol policy projects, although with slightly different significance and emphases.Practical implicationsThe results are discussed in relation to recommendations for successful alcohol policy implementation in sports clubs. Recommendations are presented in six areas: an explicit message; fit; internal policy dissemination; alcohol policy as a part of overall policy; support; and actors.Originality/valueMany sports clubs do an excellent job of implementing alcohol policies successfully and it is imperative to incorporate their “good” practices into research and provide assistance to those whose policies and practice are less developed.

scholarly journals The role of Personal Development Planning (PDP) for employer sponsored students - an exploration of how PDP learning activities can support CPD and workforce development requirements

1969 ◽  
Author(s):  
Julie Savory
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Professional Development ◽  
Staff Development ◽  
Workforce Development ◽  
Personal Development ◽  
Academic Staff ◽  
Development Planning ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Potential Benefits

Over the past decade government policy has emphasised the need for effective and active partnerships between employers and higher education providers (DfES, 2003; Wedgewood, 2007; CBI, 2008; BIS, 2009) to meet the requirements of a globalised knowledge economy. This paper discusses the findings from a research project undertaken at the University of Salford which sought to explore how:Personal Development Planning (PDP) input can support the development of employability skills for part-time sponsored students.Employer engagement could be drawn upon to enhance such provision.Informed by the Appreciative Inquiry approach (Cooperrider 1986, cited Reed, 2007), the methodology included a questionnaire survey of two student cohorts and thirteen semi-structured interviews with organisational development managers from sponsoring organisations to explore perceptions of the value of PDP within day release provision and potential benefits to the organisation. A follow up focus group with employers explored further staff development needs and the potential for PDP processes within Higher Education (HE) courses to complement their existing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and in-house staff and workforce development strategies.Savory, Conroy and Berwick The role of Personal Development Planning (PDP) for employer sponsored studentsThe paper concludes that dialogue between academic staff, students and sponsoring employers is valuable in developing shared understandings of the role of PDP activities within HE curriculum, the potential benefits for individual professional development and the workforce development requirements of organisations. Employers participating in the research stressed the importance of 'functioning knowledge' (Biggs 2003, cited Walsh, 2008) and discussions highlighted the potential for PDP to provide a bridge between the discipline specific knowledge which forms the main focus of HE courses and the trans-disciplinary knowledge produced by the largely informal learning that occurs during the course of professional practice (Gibbons et al., 1964). The joint dialogue enabled exploration of perceptions of the difference between CPD and PDP and identification of how links between PDP and appraisal processes in the workplace could be strengthened, including suggestions for practical activities which could be incorporated into HE programmes and employers' performance review processes.

scholarly journals Board diversity and effectiveness: Implications for the role of the chair

2015 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 261-276
Author(s):  
Deryl Northcott ◽  
Janine Smith
Keyword(s):  
Negative Impact ◽  
Gender Diversity ◽  
Board Members ◽  
Social Diversity ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Board Effectiveness ◽  
Board Diversity ◽  
Effective Decision Making ◽  
And Gender

This paper examines how social (ethnic and gender) diversity influences board effectiveness and impacts the role of the chair. It draws on semi-structured interviews with New Zealand board members from two company types - stated-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public listed companies (PLCs) - where the former has greater social diversity around the board table. Few prior studies of board effectiveness have accessed the views of board members via interviews, or compared directors’ perspectives from companies of similar size but differing board diversity. The findings reveal that members of SOE boards, where there is greater social diversity, saw negative director characteristics (character and attitude) and weak board relationships as strongly negative influences on board effectiveness. This group also identified poor boardroom practice (i.e. failing to achieve a boardroom atmosphere that fosters quality debate and effective decision making) as having a significant, negative impact on board outcomes. While board members in both company types saw the chair as a key influence on both board effectiveness and ineffectiveness, the ways in which the chair was seen to exert that influence differed between the company types, suggesting that diversity impacts the role of the chair as leader of the board

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