The role of professional associations in strengthening the professionalization of public administration

Abstract

Professional associations are one way that practitioners and academics can increase the quality of public administration through lifelong learning in the field. This includes training conferences, publications, web-based information and other member services.

Informally, they increase communication and reduce "stove-piping" (narrow specialization and vertical rather than horizontal focus) among public administrators. In many respects, their role in improving the process of public administration is as important as their role in improving its context and content.