Social Work Management in an Era of Diminishing Federal Responsibility

The management of organizations in every sector, including social services, has changed rapidly in recent years. However, because social work management is practiced in organizations that are typically funded directly or indirectly by the government, the current management challenges are particularly intense. These challenges result from changes in the U.S. economic and social structure, changes in public policy that have greatly increased the diversity and competitiveness of social services providers, and the development of growing public discontent with government organizations. This article reviews these changes and challenges, considers two management approaches (total quality management and reengineering), and discusses implications for social work.