"The complex subject of governance is illuminated and clarified in this completely revised third edition of William C. Johnson's popular text. Working from the premise that no significant government enterprise takes place within the boundaries of any one organization, the author examines the collaborative process through which public policy is shaped by networks of organizations with diverse missions and certain common purposes." "The discussion examines the institutional structures of government and the private sector, as well as connections between them, the specific operations within these institutions, and the relationships between administrative institutions and the larger society. Throughout the presentation, the author emphasizes the role of public administrators in forming and maintaining the partnerships that advance the goals of government."--BOOK JACKET.