Abstract

The Urban Institute and National League of Cities developed this series of 10 guides for city and county elected officials, and their staffs, to help them obtain and use information about the results of their governments' services in helping their citizens. The Guides address such issues as: improving strategic planning; improving budgeting decisions; reviewing programs throughout the year; helping motivate their government's employees and contractors; and two-way communications with citizens on what citizens are getting for their money. Specific actions are suggested, and examples are provided.

Introduction. Legislating for Results: Introduction and Definitions

1. Legislating for Results: Getting Information on the Right Things

2. Legislating for Results: Getting Good Quality Information

3. Legislating for Results: Using Outcome Information in Strategic and Program Planning

4. Legislating for Results: The Operating Budget

5. Legislating for Results: The Capital Budget

6. Legislating for Results: Reviewing Results and Costs of Services and Policies Throughout the Year

7. Legislating for Results: Motivating Personnel to Continually Improve Service Outcomes

8. Legislating for Results: Motivating Contractors and Grantees to High Levels of Performance

9. Legislating for Results: Communicating With Citizens and Media

10. Legislating for Results: Building Elected Officials and Staff Capacity and Interest

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