publicvalue

Publicvalue, sometimes written as "public value," refers to the value created by public sector activity for citizens and society, capturing outcomes that matter beyond market transactions and financial metrics. The concept emphasizes legitimacy, public trust, and social well-being as essential components of value.

Origin and development: The term is closely associated with the public value framework introduced by Mark Moore in Creating Public Value (1995), which argues that public managers must craft a value proposition for citizens, secure broad political and public support, and translate that into organizational capability. The idea has evolved into public value management, public value scoring, and related assessment methods.

Core elements: Publicvalue is judged by: (1) desirability for citizens and communities; (2) legitimacy and support from elected officials and the public; (3) effectiveness in producing outcomes such as safety, health, and equity. Public value requires collaboration, co-creation with stakeholders, transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability. Managers are tasked with balancing inputs, outputs, and outcomes, using evidence to improve policy design and service delivery.

Measurement and use: In practice, publicvalue assessments combine qualitative and quantitative indicators, citizen consultations, case studies, and performance data. Tools include value propositions, outcome mapping, and, in some jurisdictions, public value scorecards. The approach aims to align public programs with societal goals while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Criticism: Critics argue the concept can be ill-defined or politicized, difficult to operationalize, and risk instrumentalizing democratic legitimacy. Proponents respond that it offers a way to focus on outcomes and citizen well-being rather than inputs alone.