Value propositions in public collaborations: Regaining organizational focus through value configurations

Abstract

There is consensus that complex problems of contemporary society call for public service collaborations. So-called public service logic (PSL) focuses on joint value creation among a multiplicity of actors in service ecosystems. Despite recognizing various actors, this logic is essentially user-centric, with the service user being the one realizing the value. Consequently, single and collaborating organizations cannot deliver value, only potential value, or so-called value propositions. The elusive public service logic takes a network value configuration for granted and as a starting point. Drawing from two cases in Swedish healthcare, this paper argues that two other value configurations (chain and shop) are also relevant for understanding the development of value propositions – and that these may be related to both intra- and inter-organizational processes. Theoretically, we conclude that just like public service logic, other collaborative public management theories need to recognize the importance of a multiplicity of value configurations and that these are often related to both intra- and inter-organizational processes. We conclude that managers should not adopt the latest network trends without first reflecting on the relevance of existing internal processes.