Realism Philosophy in Public Management

By: Ma. Wayne S. Poso

 Realism in public management refers to an approach that recognizes and

addresses the practical challenges and complexities inherent in the

management of public organizations. This perspective acknowledges the

limitations and realities of public administration, often in contrast to more

idealistic or theoretical views.

 Aspects of Realism in Public Management

1. Limited Resources - Realism recognizes that public organizations often

operate with constrained resources, whether it be financial, human, or

time-related. Public managers must make decisions within these

constraints, balancing competing demands and priorities.

2. Political Influences - Public management operates within a political

context, and realism acknowledges the impact of political factors on

decision-making and policy implementation. Public managers must

navigate political pressures, competing interests, and changing political

landscapes.

3. Public Scrutiny and Accountability - Realism recognizes the intense

public scrutiny that public managers face. Decisions and actions are

subject to public scrutiny, media attention, and accountability

measures. Public managers need to operate in a transparent manner

and justify their decisions to the public.

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 4. Evidence-Based Decision Making - Realism encourages the use of

empirical evidence and data in decision-making processes. It

emphasizes the importance of basing policies and strategies on

reliable data and analysis rather than solely on ideological or

subjective grounds.

5. Adaptation to External Pressures - Realism acknowledges the need for

public organizations to adapt to external pressures, including economic

fluctuations, changes in public opinion, and shifts in societal

expectations. Public managers must be responsive to external forces

while maintaining the organization's core mission.

Table 1. Comparative Analysis

Mines and Department of

Department of
Characteristics Geosciences Trade and
Education
Bureau Industry
1. Limited Appropriation Appropriation Appropriation
Resources
2. Political Devolution Devolution
Influences
- Issuance of - Provide a support - Donations
special permits staff in every
Negosyo Centers

3. Public Scrutiny Audited by External Audited by External Audited by External

and Accountability Auditors Auditors Auditors

4. Evidence-Based Evaluate the Beneficiaries of DTI School-Based

Decision Making proposed area to - Pangkabuhayan Feeding Program
be declared as sa Pagbangon at covers only
Minahang Bayan Ginhawa (PPG) undernourished
Program shall still school pupils from
Assess the be subjected for kindergarten to
groundwater evaluation by the Grade 6
resource and its competent
vulnerability authorities

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 Mines and Department of
Department of
Characteristics Geosciences Trade and
Education
Bureau Industry

5. Adaptation to Acceptance of Implementation of Implementation on

External electronic Kapatid Mentor ME blended learning
Pressures payments (KMME) online approach

Acceptance of
Online filing of electronic
application/request payments
for services

 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

ADVANTAGES
Practical Decision Making
Incremental Change and Stability
Evidence-Based Decision Making
Political Savviness
Pragmatic Resource Allocation
Public Trust and Communication
DISADVANTAGES
Short-term Focus
Potential Lack of Innovation
Potential Lack of Vision
Slow Adaptation to Change
Missed Opportunities for Transformation

 NEW PHILOSOPY APPLICABLE TO THE AGENCY

EQUITY in public management refers to the fair and impartial distribution of

resources, opportunities, and services among diverse populations within a

society or community. It involves ensuring that everyone, regardless of their

background or circumstances, has access to the same opportunities and

benefits.

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