That public services exhibit unpredictability, novelty and, on occasion, chaos, is an observation with which even a casual observer would agree. Existing theoretical frameworks in public management fail to address these features, relying more heavily on attempts to eliminate unpredictability through increased reliance on measurable performance objectives, improved financial and human resource management techniques, decentralisation of authority and accountability and resolving principal-agent behaviour pathologies. Essentially, these are all attempts to improve the 'steering' capacity of public sector managers and policy makers. By adopting a Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) approach to public services, this book shifts the focus from developing steering techniques to identifying patterns of behaviour of the participants with the ultimate objective of increasing policy-makers' and practitioners' understanding of the factors that may enable more effective public service decision-making and provision. The authors apply a CAS framework to a series of case studies in public sector management to generate new insights into the issues, processes and participants in public service domains.

That public services exhibit unpredictability, novelty and, on occasion, chaos, is an observation with which even a casual observer would agree. Existing theoretical frameworks in public management fail to address these features, relying more heavily on attempts to eliminate unpredictability through increased reliance on measurable performance objectives, improved financial and human resource management techniques, decentralisation of authority and accountability and resolving principal-agent behaviour pathologies. Essentially, these are all attempts to improve the 'steering' capacity of public sector managers and policy makers.

By adopting a Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) approach to public services, this book shifts the focus from developing steering techniques to identifying patterns of behaviour of the participants with the ultimate objective of increasing policy-makers' and practitioners' understanding of the factors that may enable more effective public service decision-making and provision. The authors apply a CAS framework to a series of case studies in public sector management to generate new insights into the issues, processes and participants in public service domains.

She's produced a wonderful set of recipes, bringing imagination and sparkle to the basic ingredients ...a wonderful book - The Guardian The recipes are unbelievably romantic - The Telegraph Excellent - Time Out Eating more of the right kinds of grains is an easy way to better health. Whole grains are packed with nutrients including protein, antioxidants, B-vitamins, fibre and trace minerals. A diet rich in these grains reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and some forms of cancer. Grains are also one of the most tasty, versatile and nutritious food sources available - a delight to eat, easy to cook and very economical. Supergrains explores grains from all over the world, provides an in-depth look at their culinary uses and nutritional benefits and features over 150 recipes so that you can easily incorporate more of these superfoods into your diet - from breakfast through to dinner and warming bedtime drinks.

Can ground almonds be used to thicken soups and stews? Are beetroot leaves adible? Is there such a thing as a low-fat Christmas pudding? Can herbs be frozen? What is the difference between granita and sorbet, or a mousse and a fool? Are Jerusalem artichokes related to globe artichokes? What are 'ladies' fingers'? Which type of vinegar is best for pickles? What's the best way to tackle the flesh of a pomegranate? Find the answers to all these questions - and many more - inside this reference.