Over the last two decades public services have been directly affected by the radical, political and economic changes which have characterized Britain. As 'businesses' public service employers are now becoming more responsive to their clients and customers and have moved to a more decentralized and proactive style, based on private sector practices. This book describes past practices and current developments in public sector organizations, looking at in-depth case studies covering NHS trusts, the Civil Service, local government, police and education. It examines implications for the future and will provide an invaluable guide for both students of personnel and business studies and managers in the public sector.