How to Run a Government So that Citizens Benefit and Taxpayers Don't Go Crazy

Michael Barber shares the secrets of a successful government and provides suggestions for carrying out lasting improvements in public life

Billions of citizens around the world are frustrated with their governments. Political leaders struggle to honor their promises and officials find it near impossible to translate ideas into action, resulting in cynicism with the government and the political process. Why is this and how can this vicious spiral be reversed? In this groundbreaking book, Michael Barber draws on his wealth of experience working for and with government leaders the world over to present a blueprint for how to run a government. Using contemporary cases from every continent and classic examples from history, he makes a compelling case for a new approach. From Downing Street to Punjab, Charles I to Churchill, this book shows that the solution is less about ideology and more about clear priorities and meticulous planning.

Michael Barber has worked on government and public service reform in more than 50 countries for two decades. He is a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Harvard School of Public Health and an Honorary Doctor of several universities. His previous books include Deliverology 101 and Instruction to Deliver.