Theory of Bureaucratic Error.

The goal of this paper is put forth a theory of bureaucratic errors that is encompassing enough to correctly identify the major variables that contribute to bureaucrat errors in government programs, but that is also succinct enough to allow for the creation of hypotheses that with empirical testing could provide useful insights into how to better design, implement, and manage new government programs and improve upon the performance of current programs. This theory has defined errors as any deviation from an intended outcome that is mandated by either law or organizational rules. These errors are then further categorized into errors that may be purposeful or accidental, favorable or punitive, and directed at clients, other bureaucrats, the program mission, or some political power. This categorization provides a classification of errors, which allows for a prediction of how interactions and decisions made at the four levels might lead to specific types of errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]