Dynamic evolution in public‐private partnerships

Abstract

Purpose -This paper seeks to examine the insights that the individual agency perspective offers to the study of public-private partnerships (P3s). It extends prior research, which has primarily adopted an economic and structural perspective, by considering the ways by which individual actors involved in these complex arrangements can shape their evolutionary path. Design/methodology/approach -This conceptual paper identifies the key research issues and questions in the P3 literature and highlights how these concerns can be further illuminated by the insights offered through the individual agency perspective. Findings -The paper identifies four key issues in the P3 literature questions as the antecedents of P3s, pre-formation processes, governance models and mechanisms, and evolution and adaptation. Introduction of the individual agency perspective to these research concerns highlights additional potentially explanatory factors for P3 formation and successful adaptation. The paper demonstrates that considering this perspective alongside current explanations can extend our current thinking and usefully add depth, breadth and linkage to P3 research. Practical implications -This research challenges the current conceptions of P3 governance as one of choosing the appropriate structural option. It offers agency considerations at each stage in the sequence of P3 process and argues that individual capability and action can influence the success and effectiveness of these arrangements. Originality/value -This research introduces a managerial perspective to the study of P3s and reframes the current thinking around governance of these forms. This contrasts with the more economic and structural agendas of public policy research.

Influence of Project Governance Mechanisms on the Sustainable Development of Public-Private Partnership Projects: An Empirical Study from China

“…Risk sharing is a commonly used incentive mechanism in PPP projects. Joyner (2007) [35] believed that PPP projects could improve project governance performance by establishing a reasonable risk sharing mechanism. In addition, contractual governance also includes income distribution clauses that determine the content and means of remuneration, and its incentive effect has been demonstrated by studies [36,37].…”

Addressing the Missing Link in PPP Projects: What Constitutes the Public?

“…According to Jiménez and Pasquero (2004), most studies have addressed structural terms on PPPs, whereas very little attention has been paid to that designated by Jiménez and Pasquero (2004) as " : : : turbulent environments on partnerships over the long run." Furthermore, although many scholars have researched and written about PPP initiatives, few have been very specific on what really constitutes such an initiative (Joyner 2007;Domberger and Fernandez 1999;Jingfeng et al 2009). These authors, for example, proceed from the assumption that PPPs are now a commonly adopted strategy for the delivery of public infrastructure and service; that their use is primarily attributable to the need for improved efficiency through the joint commitment of both private and public sectors for delivery and sharing of risk.…”