Managerial Backgrounds and Policy Instrument Selection: A Mechanism-Based Inquiry Using MSSD in Smart Elderly Care Policy in China

Abstract Purpose: This study aims to explore the relationship between the individual characteristics of local public managers and the policy tool styles they employ in aging governance. The context is one where governance performance, management capacity, and resource environment are similar. The goal is to expand understanding of policy selection logic beyond the "capacity-performance" framework. Design and methodology: The thesis uses the case study method and selects two pilot areas with excellent elderly care service performance in the same Chinese city. It reviews the policy content and local practices. Based on the compulsory-voluntary-mixed policy tool classification framework, the policy tool combinations in the two cases are first categorized. Then, using empirical materials, they are classified into one of the three categories. The study focuses on differences in policy selection. Findings: Despite similar governance conditions, the two government leaders in the case...Show moreAbstract Purpose: This study aims to explore the relationship between the individual characteristics of local public managers and the policy tool styles they employ in aging governance. The context is one where governance performance, management capacity, and resource environment are similar. The goal is to expand understanding of policy selection logic beyond the "capacity-performance" framework. Design and methodology: The thesis uses the case study method and selects two pilot areas with excellent elderly care service performance in the same Chinese city. It reviews the policy content and local practices. Based on the compulsory-voluntary-mixed policy tool classification framework, the policy tool combinations in the two cases are first categorized. Then, using empirical materials, they are classified into one of the three categories. The study focuses on differences in policy selection. Findings: Despite similar governance conditions, the two government leaders in the case showed noticeably different governance styles and combinations of policy tools in their choices. These differences may be related to their gender and professional training backgrounds. Contributions: Given the generally balanced performance, this study focuses on differences in policy tool selection by controlling for performance outcomes and background conditions. It reveals the behavioral logic behind leaders’ policy styles and expands the perspective that has traditionally relied solely on capacity or performance. Theoretically, this research deepens our understanding of how individual traits shape policy behavior. Empirically, it offers rare evidence on the behavioral patterns of high-level officials in China's local governments, enriching the broader discourse on public administration in developing countries. Practical implications: These findings offer valuable insights for policy designers on how to effectively combine different policy strategies to address diverse governance needs. Drawing on Zhejiang Province's strong digital governance capacity and resource advantages, such successful experiences are well-suited for horizontal replication within the province and are especially applicable for policy adaptation and mechanism improvement in other cities. In the current context of the country’s strong emphasis on digital governance, these priority development experiences also carry important exemplary value. Moreover, a thorough understanding of local leaders’ policy selection logic can aid in formulating more targeted governance strategies.Show less

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Managerial Backgrounds and Policy Instrument Selection: A Mechanism-Based Inquiry Using MSSD in Smart Elderly Care Policy in China