Abstract

Looking at public transport in 45 Swiss agglomerations, we tried to identify explanatory factors for an effective output in this policy area. By testing four different modes of political steering in a regression model, we find robust results that a network governance structure performs significantly better than any other type. Governance, as opposed to government, seems to be the more effective mode of political steering for policy problems in which specific aspects of the policies and the relevant territory demand flexible adjustments. We therefore come to the conclusion that the simple dichotomy of government versus governance is not suitable to find the best way to govern for all policies. Rather, the policy and the relevant territory should guide decisions concerning modes of political steering.