ZERO PLAGIARISM 5 REFERENCES NOT MORE THAN 5 YEARS In a 2- to 4-page paper, create an interview transcript of your responses to the following interview questions: Tummers, L., & Bekkers, V. (2014). Policy implementation, street level bureaucracy, and the importance of discretion. (4), 527–547. doi:10.1080/14719037.2013.841978. You will access this article from the Walden Library databases.
Title: Policy Implementation, Street Level Bureaucracy, and the Importance of Discretion: An Interview Transcript
Introduction:
This interview transcript aims to provide insights into the article titled “Policy Implementation, Street Level Bureaucracy, and the Importance of Discretion” written by Tummers and Bekkers (2014). The article explores the role of discretion in policy implementation, particularly within the context of street-level bureaucracy. Through a series of interview questions, this transcript delves into key concepts and findings presented in the article.
Interviewer: Thank you for agreeing to participate in this interview. To begin, could you provide a brief overview of the main arguments presented in the article?
Interviewee: Thank you for having me. The article explores the notion of discretion in policy implementation and its relevance within street-level bureaucracy. Tummers and Bekkers argue that street-level bureaucrats, who directly interact with citizens in the implementation of policies, possess significant discretionary power. They highlight the importance of discretion in addressing the complexity and ambiguity of policy objectives, as well as adapting policies to local contexts.
Interviewer: The article mentions the concept of street-level bureaucracy. Could you explain what this term refers to?
Interviewee: Certainly. Street-level bureaucracy refers to the frontline public service workers who provide services directly to citizens. These individuals, such as police officers, social workers, and teachers, operate at a local level and are responsible for implementing government policies. They are the face of the government for citizens and have considerable influence in shaping policy outcomes.
Interviewer: The authors discuss the importance of discretion in policy implementation. Could you elaborate on this?
Interviewee: Discretion refers to the decision-making authority conferred upon street-level bureaucrats. It allows them to translate policy intentions into concrete actions. Tummers and Bekkers argue that discretion is necessary because policies often entail vagueness and ambiguity, making it impossible to anticipate and prescribe all the specific circumstances faced by street-level bureaucrats. Thus, they need discretion to make informed judgments based on their understanding of local conditions and individual cases in order to achieve policy goals.
Interviewer: How does the article highlight the relationship between discretion and policy outcomes?
Interviewee: The article suggests that the exercise of discretion by street-level bureaucrats significantly influences policy outcomes. Tummers and Bekkers argue that discretion allows street-level bureaucrats to tailor policies to the needs of individual cases, contributing to better outcomes. However, they also note that excessive discretion can lead to inconsistent decision-making and inequitable treatment. Thus, finding the right balance in exercising discretion is critical for achieving policy goals.
Interviewer: The authors emphasize that discretion is not unlimited and is subject to several constraints. What are some of these constraints?
Interviewee: Tummers and Bekkers identify several constraints on the exercise of discretion. First, legal constraints restrict the boundaries within which discretion can be exercised. Street-level bureaucrats must adhere to legal principles and procedures. Second, organizational constraints, such as rules and regulations, shape the parameters within which discretion operates. Additionally, professional norms and standards influence the exercise of discretion. Lastly, political and societal pressures can impact discretion by imposing external expectations on street-level bureaucrats.
Interviewer: The article also discusses the role of accountability in managing discretion. How does accountability relate to discretion?
Interviewee: Accountability plays a crucial role in managing discretion. The article highlights that street-level bureaucrats are accountable to multiple actors, including their supervisors, the public, and policymakers. Accountability mechanisms, such as supervision, performance measurement, and public feedback, help ensure that discretion is exercised in line with policy objectives and societal expectations. However, the authors caution that excessive accountability can inhibit discretion and undermine the ability of street-level bureaucrats to respond effectively to unique cases.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights. In conclusion, could you briefly summarize the key takeaways from the article?
Interviewee: The article emphasizes the importance of discretion in policy implementation, particularly within street-level bureaucracy. It highlights that discretion enables street-level bureaucrats to adapt policies to local contexts and individual circumstances. However, the exercise of discretion is subject to constraints, such as legal, organizational, professional, and societal factors. Effective management of discretion requires finding the right balance while also ensuring accountability to achieve policy objectives.
Interviewer: Thank you for your valuable insights. This interview transcript has provided a comprehensive overview of the article’s key arguments and concepts.