Alternative Service Delivery describes a new model which enables public managers (government entities) to choose from a spectrum of delivery methods.

Shown here is a spectrum of Service Delivery Options Allegheny County could employ.........ranging from complete public delivery to complete private delivery

I will give a brief definition of each service delivery method ….. an example of their implementation is shown in gray

Direct Delivery-Government retains full control and responsibility for service delivery.

Managed Competition-A government agency competes through the bidding process with private firms for provision of a service.

Contracting Out- Contracting out is the process of hiring private service providers to perform a government service through contracts.

Vouchers- Individuals are provided with vouchers (coupons) of a particular monetary value, for use in purchasing a particular good or service from public and/or private providers

Partnerships-Public and Private entities share responsibility and combine resources to meet a common goal. Government Enterprises-Quasi-gov’t agencies which are exempt from some government rules and regulations, while retaining the right to enjoy some powers and privileges of the government. At the same time they are not bound by rules that govern private enterprise.

Asset Sale- The sale of a government owned building, bridge, or other facility or enterprise, such as an airport. State stores are an example of an asset sale.

Load Shed- Reduces or eliminates the quantity or quality of an service.

Determining which of these options to consider is an arduous task and, contrary to popular belief, often results in more complex government arrangements

In order to choose appropriately from the options available, decision makers must accurately and cautiously evaluate many factors contributing to service delivery

These factors typically fall under one of the following four categories.