There is a critical linkage between the quality of an organisationís management processes and long-term success. Old management models emphasised discipline, inflexibility, hierarchy and control. New management models emphasise openness, flexibility, learning and empowerment. All MPM units will benefit from an appraisal of their management practices. Quality management is a way of thinking, not a set of fixed prescriptions. a

To appraise their practices, MPM units can use the seven Australian Quality Award assessment criteria:

Management of an MPM unit should include regular self-assessment. a

Governance is the role of democratically elected bodies such as local councils. Governance embraces leading, managing, organising, coordinating and accounting for outcomes on the communityís behalf. a

Delivery of MPM services according to specifications should be viewed as a separate activity from governance of MPM services. While governance should never be contracted out, delivery of services can be either conducted in-house or contracted out to other organisations. a

Accurate costing contributes to an MPM unitís strategic management. a