But time and circumstances have changed. Public policy formulation and
implementation is no longer the sole responsibility of government. Today, the public
policy process is becoming increasingly more open and participative, involving many
individuals, groups and institutions both inside and outside government. Put more
formally, there has been a reformulation of the steering mechanisms of society. Under
these circumstances, the role of government is changing. As we witness a fragmentation
of policy responsibility in society, we must also recognize that the traditional
mechanisms of governmental control are no longer workable—or even appropriate.
Traditional hierarchical government is giving way to a growing decentralization of policy
interests, in which government, non-profit organizations, and many others will play new
and decisive roles. Control is giving way to interaction and involvement.