Affiliations: [a] Institut de Gestion Publique et du Développement
Economique (Paris), 20 allée Georges Pompidou, 94000 Vincennes, Institut de
Management Public, Université Paul Cézanne, Aix-en-Provence, 21 rue Gaston
de Saporta, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France | [b] Institut de Management Public, Université Paul
Cézanne, Aix-en-Provence, 21 rue Gaston de Saporta, 13100 Aix-en-Provence,
France. E-mail: [email protected] | [c] Institut de Management Public, Université Paul
Cézanne, 21 rue Gaston de Saporta, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France. E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: The introduction of France's Constitutional Bylaw on Budget Acts
(LOLF) in 2006 and its concept of performance-based management implies a
profound reengineering of the relationship between the central government and
the autonomous agencies in charge of implementing policy. In this paper, we
examine the case of French scientific research policy, which is carried out via
a network of 160 universities and 40 specialized scientific agencies, all of
them enjoy statutory autonomy. Information systems are key in ensuring that
processes in the field are in line with central public policy objectives. A new
approach to this network is required, one that we call "urbanization", i.e.
rethinking the system's overall architecture as a city map, rather than the
"spaghetti" networks inherited from the past. Managing such a project raises
strategic questions about centre-periphery relationships, and requires a
partial solution to the dichotomy between local strategic autonomy and the
central impetus the state must give in order to enforce its political
objectives. In terms of centre-periphery theory and a strategic planning
approach to IT, we explain why information systems are a critical issue in
centre-periphery relationships. We then analyze how IS reengineering may foster
strategic dialogue between the central administration and autonomous agencies.
Finally, we use as an example the difficulties we encountered in designing the
new capabilities, and we conclude on the emerging paradigm shift in public
administration concepts.
Keywords: Information system, french research policy, centre-periphery dilemma, qualitative research methodology
