Public Management for Local Development: Perception from the Administrative Area of a Municipality in Peru

Objective To analyze the perception of the administrative department of a municipality regarding public management. Method Qualitative approach through interviews. The sample consisted of 30 employees from the administrative department of a municipality in Peru. Results It was found that the employees seem to have a clear understanding of the applied public management model and the organization of the administrative area. Responses regarding the management of financial, human, and material resources vary in accuracy and detail, suggesting a possible lack of knowledge in some areas. It is important to enhance communication clarity on these topics and provide precise information to ensure effective and transparent management within the municipality. Conclusion Municipality employees demonstrate an understanding of their roles and face challenges in teamwork and bureaucracy. There is some confusion regarding the “New Public Management” and a lack of knowledge in resource management. Improving training, streamlining procedures, and fostering team participation in planning are crucial aspects. Furthermore, implementing periodic assessments is recommended to enhance administrative efficiency.


Introduction
The term or concept of public management refers to the planning, organization, direction, and control of various activities carried out by the public sector, with the aim of achieving the objectives and goals set by governmental institutions (Cañari & Hancco, 2021).In other words, public management involves efficiently administering public resources, both in decision-making and implementation, with the purpose of enhancing the societal benefits for the entire community (Morveli, 2021).
Given the above, it can be inferred that poor public management by governmental entities can lead to various problems and challenges that can affect both internal operations of the organizations and the well-being and trust of the general population (Merchán et al., 2022).
Globally, the advent of COVID-19 in 2020 not only impacted the economic and political landscape of countries but also unveiled significant issues in public management on a global scale.Over the two years since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, countries have required not only effective preventive measures and treatments but also targeted and efficient public policies to address the public health emergency.The pandemic has posed a threat to existing governance systems, highlighting issues of management, leadership, and the limitations of modern democracy in various parts of the world (Assefa et al., 2022).
Within this framework, it's crucial to understand that public management is a significant factor in society.Hence, it's essential to comprehend how a state institution behaves and how it assembles different strategic elements to tackle challenges posed by both external and internal agents within its jurisdiction (Ramió, 2020).The upper management should implement proper strategic planning to ensure the institution's competitiveness and adaptability to changes.Sound management ensures the continuity and longevity of institutions.On the contrary, poor management will have negative impacts not only within the institution, affecting employees and resulting in low motivation and performance but also within the society in which the institution operates (Correia et al., 2019).Arévalo and Barbarán (2021) noted that corruption is a significant issue plaguing Peru, stating that it is "one of the main concerns of Peruvians about the performance of both the State and the Government.One option to combat corruption is to foster transparency mechanisms in the administration of public resources.Public officials are called to serve the interests of the Nation and to ensure the proper use of public resources transparently" (p.5526).While corruption is a major concern in Peru, it's also apparent that authorities often lack the support of the population.In Chiclayo, for instance, 69% of citizens feel that the authorities of the municipal district of José Leonardo Ortiz (Chiclayo) do not support them, and 84% indicate that they don't believe the municipality considers the population's demands.This is a clear example that local authorities are not effectively practicing public management, as reflected in the opinions of the residents (Mallasca et al., 2018).
While public opinion is essential, so is the perspective of those working within public institutions.Public employees often find themselves entangled in the problems faced by the entity, due to bureaucratic obstacles and the complexity of administrative procedures within municipal areas.This often leads to inefficiencies in public management models, administrative processes, and procedures, or lack of planning that result in delays or hindrances to local development.Therefore, this research aims to understand how public management is conducted within a municipality from the viewpoint and perception of administrative staff.

Methods
The research will employ a group interview approach with a qualitative focus (Hernández-Sampieri et al., 2018).The research design will be phenomenological and descriptive.This is because the researcher will use interviews to collect information regarding experiences and opinions of the sample, which could be diverse or common (Hernández-Sampieri et al., 2018).
The population will consist of 100 employees from the administrative area of a municipality in Peru (Ñaupas et al., 2018).The sample will comprise 30 administrative staff members from a municipality.The specific job titles held within the institution will not be considered; the criterion is that they occupy purely administrative roles within the study site.
The chosen sample size is based on the nature of the study, which aligns with qualitative research principles."Sample sizes for qualitative studies, such as grounded theory, interview studies, or observations of people, suggest a sample size of 20 to 30 cases to study" (Hernández-Sampieri & Mendoza, 2018, p. 428).
It's important to note that qualitative studies, such as interviews or observations, do not seek to generalize results.The researcher's focus in such studies is on the depth of the topic.Selecting the sample to study involves considering three factors: the researcher's operational capacity, the unit of analysis's knowledge of the phenomenon under study, and the time available for data collection.Furthermore, the sample will be composed of "typical cases," aiming for rich, in-depth, and high-quality information, without emphasizing quantity or standardization (Hernández-Sampieri & Mendoza, 2018).
Considering the above, no specific sampling method will be used.
The technique employed was the interview, and the instrument used was an "interview guide."This guide was applied between the months of May and June 2023.Participants were previously notified by e-mail.A recording was made of the responses obtained from the interview in order to be able to analyse the responses in depth.
The researcher respected all aspects related to copyright while conducting the research.Each participant was adequately informed about the research, and their participation was completely voluntary and willing.Anonymity of the interviewees was maintained, and the confidentiality of obtained data was upheld.No modifications were made to the collected responses.

Ethics statement
The research was approved by document CO-001-06-2023/CE issued by the ethics committee of the Universidad Autonoma de Ica.

Ethical aspects
The confidentiality and privacy of participants has been ensured in accordance with the ethical principles of confidentiality, respect and transparency.Measures were taken to preserve the identity of the interviewees by means of pseudonyms or codes for anonymity in the results.Participation was voluntary, with written informed consent, detailing objectives and possible implications.A relationship of respect and empathy was maintained, creating an environment of trust for the free expression of experiences.Participants were free to withdraw at any time without adverse consequences.

Results
Regarding gender, most individuals within the sample were women, accounting for 71.4% of the participants in the study, while men constituted 28.6%.In terms of age distribution, 33% fell within the 20-25 age range, 37% were aged 26-35, and 30% fell between the ages of 36 and 55.
Moving on to the dimension of administrative workers' backgrounds, it was observed that most participants were aware of their roles within the municipality.Roles mentioned included administration, administrative assistants, handling paperwork, engineering/technical roles, human resources, and specific responsibilities such as being a manager, tax area supervisor, warehouse manager, logistics coordinator, cashier, among others.Regarding their tenure in these roles, it was found that some had been in their positions for less than six months, others for around 6 months to a year, and some had experience ranging from 2 to 8 years.Some participants mentioned lacking experience or having worked in different fields unrelated to public management.The shortest work experience period mentioned was "3 months," cited by one participant, while the longest was 8 years.
When it comes to the challenges perceived by workers within the municipality, teamwork was a prominent concern.Some considered managing a large team to be the primary challenge, which could complicate internal coordination and communication.Therefore, they felt compelled to apply effective strategies to ensure efficient and smooth management.Another challenge identified was project process control and monitoring, which are crucial elements of public management.Participants indicated that inadequate supervision could impact the achievement of objectives.Excessive bureaucratic procedures and lengthy administrative timelines were also mentioned as daily challenges hindering efficiency among departments and the management of public resources.This often resulted in delays in response times between departments and to the public.Lack of training in certain areas, such as logistics, was recognized as a challenge for employee development and effective job performance.This issue stemmed from the designation of unqualified personnel for certain roles, leading to performance and efficiency problems in the administrative area.
In terms of the public management model indicator, a considerable number of responses mentioned that the municipality adhered to the "New Public Management" approach as the model for promoting local development.However, some indicated that the "New Public Management" was being implemented based on results.Others perceived a more traditional management approach.There seems to be some confusion and lack of clarity regarding the exact model being implemented by the municipality.Nevertheless, a general sense of ongoing development and implementation of public management was apparent.
Regarding their understanding of the hierarchical organization of both their department and the municipality, responses indicated a clear consensus that the highest authority was the mayor, alongside the overseeing managers.The hierarchical structure mentioned in the responses ranged from the mayor and municipal council as the highest authorities, followed by managers and department heads in various areas.When asked about the management of financial, human, and material resources within the administrative area, responses varied, suggesting a lack of understanding in this regard.Inconsistent and unclear responses indicated a possible lack of information or comprehension regarding resource management within the administrative area of the municipality.
Concerning the administrative processes and procedures indicator, responses regarding "Key Administrative Processes and Procedures" showed significant differences.Many considered process supervision and control as key points, along with training and delegation of tasks.However, some responses indicated that a key process for improving municipality management could be the reduction of bureaucracy and streamlining of documentation.These management processes could enhance institution functionality.To improve process efficiency, many emphasized the importance of continuous employee training, which would enable the utilization of various technologies and platforms to streamline municipality management.
When asked about measures taken to ensure efficiency and transparency in resource management, a wide range of approaches were mentioned.Some highlighted the importance of project planning and periodic evaluation, while others emphasized the need for consensus-based and responsible decision-making.Citizen participation was also mentioned as a means of ensuring transparency in management.
Regarding the planning and sustainability indicator, opinions regarding the preparation and execution of strategic plans and development within the municipality highlighted the formulation of short-and long-term plans and goals with execution timelines.Inclusion of the entire team in the planning process was considered vital for clarity and focus during execution.For ensuring project and program sustainability, continuous supervision and monitoring were deemed crucial to ensure proper infrastructure utilization.Being adequately prepared and trained to maintain programs and projects over time was also emphasized.
When questioned about potential actions for implementing improvements and optimizing administrative processes, responses mentioned identifying areas for improvement, setting objectives, planning, and continuous monitoring.The significance of personnel training and continuous process review was highlighted.Some mentioned the implementation of internal directives and coordination among management areas.
Finally, in terms of evaluation and continuous improvement, performance and results within the administrative area were measured using internal indicators and tracking, as well as results-based evaluations.Internal surveys and evaluations conducted periodically were also emphasized.Some mentioned that they had not undergone performance evaluations during their time at the municipality but considered it necessary for improving processes through feedback.Potential actions for implementing improvements and optimizing administrative processes included identifying areas for enhancement, formulating objectives, and continuous planning and monitoring.Training staff and ongoing process review were also highlighted.Key indicators for measuring the success and efficiency of the administrative area included resource utilization, service quality, and the final outcomes of both short-and long-term plans.

Discussion
In relation to the indicator of administrative worker backgrounds, the personnel conveyed that they are aware of and understand their roles within the municipality.They also mentioned the challenges they perceive within the municipality and each specific work area.This is significant as some participants mentioned that this is their first experience in public sector management.Despite the lack of experience in some cases, having a clear understanding of their tasks and responsibilities indicates that topics like control and supervision are emphasized within the institution.Nonetheless, it's important to note that this is not always the case, as demonstrated by Luna's study (2021) which found that "most of the workers' responses were questions, stemming from lack of knowledge and task/function discoordination due to absence of leadership from superiors." Regarding the administrative processes and procedures indicator, responses varied.Workers indicated that key points followed by the municipality include planning, periodic project evaluations, and process control.They suggested consensus-based decision-making and citizen participation to ensure transparency and efficiency.These highlighted points and recommendations, from the workers' perspective, contribute to appropriate and correct public management within the locality.Poor management can result in what Luna (2021) concluded: "there was a level of management with deficiencies due to lack of planning, direction, and strategies, resulting in failure to achieve planned objectives." In relation to planning and sustainability, it was evident that workers consider it crucial to include the entire team in the development and execution of strategic and development plans within the municipality.Continuous supervision is also considered a measure to ensure project and program sustainability.Similar findings were reported by Auccatinco and Auccatinco (2021), whose study revealed that all municipal workers in their research agreed that proper internal control and accountability positively affect development not only within the municipality but also in ongoing and upcoming projects.
In terms of the evaluation and continuous improvement indicator, workers indicated that the administrative area is measured using internal indicators and tracking, as well as through surveys and periodic evaluations.Key indicators of success and efficiency in the administrative area include resource utilization, service quality, and the final outcomes of both short-and long-term plans.These are important points that must be managed within any government institution.This aligns with the findings of Bautista and Delgado (2020), whose study evidenced challenges faced by administrative staff in a municipality during the COVID-19 pandemic.They reported issues such as a lack of activity planning, lengthy administrative processes, bureaucratic obstacles, and deficient communication among departments.
In summary, the perceived model of public management among the workers is mainly aligned with the "New Public Management" approach.While responses reflect a mix of understanding and lack of knowledge on some topics, some workers seem to have a clear grasp of the applied public management model and the organization of the administrative area.Although certain areas (such as the management of financial, human, and material resources) reveal confusion or a lack of information, the overall perception of workers appears positive.However, they also acknowledge areas that need improvement to optimize management and contribute to local development.These findings are consistent with Vega's study (2019), which provided insight into the perception of management within a municipality and revealed that 94% of respondents considered the municipality's management effective.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the majority demonstrated an understanding of their roles within the municipality, encompassing various functions and specific responsibilities.Furthermore, a variety of work experiences in terms of tenure in positions were evident.The primary challenges identified by the workers in the municipality revolved around teamwork, process control, bureaucracy, extended administrative timelines, and a lack of training in certain areas.
While the perception that the municipality operates under the "New Public Management" prevails, certain confusions and lack of knowledge about the exact model were also observed.Regarding the management of financial, human, and material resources, a widespread lack of understanding was detected in the responses, suggesting the need to enhance transparency and clarity in this aspect.In the realm of administrative processes and procedures, diverse opinions on key points to improve municipal management were found, with a focus on the importance of continuous training and streamlining documentation.Concerning planning and sustainability, the necessity of involving the entire team in the development and execution of strategic plans was emphasized, as was the importance of constant oversight to ensure project sustainability.
Finally, in the indicator of evaluation and continuous improvement, the need for implementing periodic performance assessments to provide feedback and enhance administrative processes was identified.

Ambrocio Teodoro Esteves Pairazamán
Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad Privada Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru The manuscript explores municipal public management in Peru from the perspective of administrative staff, analyzing topics such as strategic planning, daily challenges, and the adoption of public management models.Based on surveys and qualitative analysis, it offers a detailed view of internal practices and critical areas for efficient and transparent local development.
This article is highly relevant as it provides an insider's perspective on public management in a Peruvian municipal context, identifying challenges and opportunities to improve administrative efficiency and transparency.It is particularly valuable for academics and professionals interested in public administration and local development.
As a final recommendation, I would suggest that the institution implement periodic performance evaluations to provide feedback and improve administrative processes.I will keep an eye out for any new developments and their potential publication soon.

Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others? Yes
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?Not applicable Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

REVIEW REPORT: PUBLIC MANAGEMENT FOR LOCAL DEVELOPMENT
The research topic is suitable for the study.The study employed a qualitative approach with interviews as stated in the methodology, and the sample size used was appropriate.However, the introduction of the paper needs improvement.The information provided on the topic is too scanty.The concept of "public management" has not been well explored in this study.Also, the right literature was not consulted to identify the theoretical and empirical debates on public management and local development to which the authors seek to contribute or provide the missing link.As a result, the paper lacks a clearly defined research puzzle/problem statement.The study lacks a theoretical and empirical literature review.A section should be created for the review of existing relevant empirical literature on the topic to support the study.The review should be extant and of current literature focusing on different dimensions of public management and local development to provide a better understanding of public management.In the same way, an appropriate theory should be adopted to guide and ground this study.Again, the methodology of the study fails to elaborate on exactly how the data collected using interviews were analyzed.The authors should provide a detailed account of how responses from the interview were analyzed.How were the interviews coded, and what qualitative data analysis method was employed?The discussion section needs improvement.The findings of the study should be well discussed with the outcomes of earlier studies on the topic to identify where the findings of the current study confirm already existing literature or run contrary to the claims of earlier scholarship on the topic under investigation.Finally, the conclusion provides a snapshot of the key findings of the study.Nevertheless, it is important to relate these findings to the possible implications.What is the implication of these I would like to add a few points that could make the paper a little stronger overall: -I miss a focused research question.As it stands, the paper describes the respondents' answers, but it lacks an actual and in-depth analysis in relation to one (!) clear and focused question.For example, what does it mean when respondents see a number of challenges?What is the effect on services?Or for the acceptance by the population mentioned in the introduction?-In the description of the method, it would be important to know how the interviews were analyzed.Which coding method was used?With what results?I recommend using a paper that has been successfully published in a journal and contains qualitative evaluations as a guide.There are usually also good visualizations (e.g. with 1st and 2nd order analyses).
-The discussion section should contain less of a summary of the results and more of a classification of your own findings in the context of existing knowledge.Which statements in the literature can be confirmed?Which ones need to be questioned?Where do the authors have new findings that cannot be found in the literature?
Overall, I think that the paper can benefit if the focus is even narrower and if there is a concrete statement at the end."So what?" -what do we learn from the analysis of the interviews?Beyond the descriptive, the analytical should be strengthened so that perhaps one or two surprising points come to light.I encourage the authors to continue working with this valuable and rich empirical material.We would like to see it published!The paper still needs some work, but it has the potential to be really exciting.Reviewer Expertise: Public Management I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above.

Is
The benefits of publishing with F1000Research: Your article is published within days, with no editorial bias • You can publish traditional articles, null/negative results, case reports, data notes and more • The peer review process is transparent and collaborative • Your article is indexed in PubMed after passing peer review • Dedicated customer support at every stage • For pre-submission enquiries, contact research@f1000.com Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?YesCompeting Interests: No competing interests were disclosed.ReviewerExpertise: Master's degree in Research and Teaching, doctorate in Educational Administration, and Bachelor of Science in Management I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard.Reviewer Report 23 May 2024 https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.157559.r263191© 2024 Abane J.This is an open access peer review report distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?Partly Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?Partly Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?Partly If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?Not applicable Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?No Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?Yes Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed.