Ke, Y; Cheng, Z; Zhang, J and Liu, Y (2024) Making sense of the definition of public-private partnerships. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 14(1), pp. 4-21. ISSN 2044-124X
Abstract
Purpose: Despite the widespread study and application of public-private partnerships (PPPs) since the 1980s, the field lacks a universally accepted definition that captures the concept's complexity. This study aims to offer a definition and foster a more substantive and comprehensive discourse on PPPs to improve communication and understanding between academics and practitioners from diverse disciplines and legislative backgrounds. Design/methodology/approach: Grounded in the family-resemblance concept proposed by German philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, this study conducts a comprehensive literature review to identify core and non-core elements frequently cited in PPP descriptions. The authors used these findings to develop the PPP sunflower model as a structured framework for defining PPPs. Findings: The analysis elucidates six core elements consistently present in PPP descriptions: clarity of roles and responsibilities, appropriate risk allocation and sharing, injection of expertise and resources, cooperation and teamwork, a bundle of services, and long-term contracts. Coupled with identified non-core elements, these core components comprise the PPP sunflower model, a structured framework for defining PPPs that accommodates their multi-faceted nature. Originality/value: The PPP sunflower model distinguishes itself as a unique contribution to the PPP literature. It offers a rigorous theoretical framework that can elucidate the complexity of PPPs for various stakeholders. The model serves as a practical tool for evaluating the authenticity and viability of PPP projects. The study's novelty lies in its adoption of the family-resemblance concept, thereby providing a comprehensive, multi-dimensional framework that enhances the understanding of PPPs across different disciplines and legislative contexts.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | family-resemblance; ludwig wittgenstein; public-private partnership; sunflower model |
| Index terms: | complexity, injection, cooperation, practitioner, risk allocation, methodology, literature review, partnership, teamwork |
| Subjects: | partnership management, systems engineering, research methods, management, manufacturing engineering, financial risk, psychology, data analysis and analytics, practitioner |
| Topics: | Organizational Design, Cost Management, Engineering Principles, Research Practice, Roles and Professions, Stakeholder Management |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTA |
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