Book excerpt: This work contains reports of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences. The scientific programme emphasizes a comparative approach and incorporates significant theoretical and conceptual developments. Six workshops are reported upon including the reconstruction of government functions, decentralization, redesigning for responsiveness, accountability and risk-taking, special interests and client relationships, reaffirmation of values, and mobilizing learning. A panel on administrative reform in China forms a unique contribution. Readers include professionals, scholars and students of public administration.