Service Delivery Theoretical Frameworks for Sustainable and Equitable Municipal Services

Description

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21886183

Mocheudi Martinus Selepe and Wendy Meadolance Madonsela (Department of Public Administration, University of Limpopo, South Africa)

The study explores the theoretical frameworks that can improve the delivery of municipal services and possible mechanisms to address the current challenges. Its main goal is to identify theories that will help South African local government develop a model and reduce the backlog of municipal service delivery. The research methodology used was desktop research, which involves gathering existing (secondary) data from sources such as academic journals, government reports, industry publications, and online databases. The approach includes setting clear objectives, critically evaluating and selecting reliable sources, and collecting and organizing data and insights. The leadership’s ability to steer institutional performance will ensure the success of this approach. The role of Decentralization Theory in Service Delivery is vital for providing efficient services and sound governance in South Africa. Additionally, the study introduces Cohesive Service Delivery Theory as a new approach to address South Africa’s service delivery issues. The Theory of Human Service Delivery explains how people collaborate within systems to provide services. Theorists aim to build the optimal system to deliver the best possible services. The Public Choice Theory on Public Service Delivery highlights the use of economic techniques in political research and decision-making processes. The study concludes with an emphasis on Decentralization Theory on Service Delivery. Overall, this research contributes to existing knowledge and supports municipalities in implementing the service delivery framework, with the primary aim of improving service provision. Additionally, the study will assist policymakers when formulating municipal service delivery-related policies.