This is the run that never ends....

2.5 rounds around Bedok Reservoir! 2.5 X 4.3 km = 10.75km .... in 1 hour and 2 min :)

That half marathon is looking more achievable everyday.....

I blogged a while ago about how running is relaxing cos it's the only time my squirrel-like demented little brain actually stops firing on 8 different cylinders. At once.

So strangely enough, while running today, my brain was dwelling on public policy. And the ramifications thereof.

How do we truly achieve networked government? It is right that each department owns and champions certain functions. This allows for deep knowledge and advocacy by a department. Decisions that run across different departments can be reconciled by senior management. But what happens when it happens across different Ministries? I keep thinking back to the issue of hot dog stands in Singapore. Some smart soul suggested that the government permit this in Singapore. We agreed. Except that URA, the function owner, limited the timing and location of these mobile food vans to minimise disruption to the public, thereby preventing these entrepreneurs from even coming close to making a profit.

Another question : How do we ensure efficiency while giving autonomy? If too much is devolved, then economies of scale are lost. But if we take autonomy away, then we are unable to make truly effective and efficient decisions at the ground level. This could then contribute to greater efficiency at the macro level. One example this plays out in is in HR. If I don't trust line managers to judge properly, then I would impose strict conditions and rules. Yet, this might keep them from selecting and grooming the right kind of people. Where is this ideal tipping point, of pareto-optimality that allows for maximum effectiveness (rather than efficiency?)

Ok, this is getting a little too cheem. I was gonna say something about levels of power, but will leave that be for now.

Ajantis is in a daze....