Perceptions and practice of Gov2.0 in English local government

[摘要] Gov2.0 is an emerging and contested subject that offers a radical alternative to the construction of relationships between residents and their local authorities. This research investigates the practice of Gov2.0 and practitioners’ perceptions of this in English local authorities. The research combines analysis of practices through a content analysis of 50 principal local authority web sites and use of Q-methodology to identify the shared subjective frames of reference of 52 local government actors. The literature surrounding Gov2.0 is found to be lacking a clear theoretical model. A model is presented as a basis for an exploration of the practice and common understanding of the subject. Levels of inconsistency in adoption of Gov2.0 that are not defined by political party control, geography or authority governance structure are identified. The results of the Q-methodology examination of individual perspectives are discussed, and four frames of reference which provide a foundation for variations of practice observed are proposed. This research offers a theoretical model for understanding Gov2.0; it identifies four distinct frames of reference held by practitioners regarding Gov2.0 and presents an analysis of the range of adoption practices within English local authorities.

[发布机构] University:University of Birmingham;Department:School of Government and Society

[关键词] J Political Science;JN Political institutions (Europe);JN101 Great Britain