RECONSIDERING GENDER AND PUBLIC-ADMINISTRATION - 5 STEPS BEYOND CONVENTIONAL RESEARCH

In this paper, we propose a needed reconceptualization of the study of gender and public administration that is sensitive to emerging issues of public-service renewal. Five central themes are examined and new r esearch directions illustrated. The first theme is the nature of commi tment. We argue in favour of the development of new social ecological models for the study of work and suggest ways in which personal projec ts analysis as a methodology can illuminate the nature of commitment a nd efficacy. Second, we challenge the utility of studying fixed job ne eds and motivations, arguing that examination of ''free traits'' and o rganizational niches may provide a deeper understanding of the pursuit s of public servants. Third, we urge researchers to move beyond assump tions about chilly organizational climates. Our finding of a striking linkage for women between perceptions of climate and appraisals of wor k projects adds a new dimension to the study of organizational climate . Fourth, the paper suggests that, rather than focusing on different m anagement styles, future research should concentrate on the nature of and organizational support for projects of ''managing people.'' Fifth, we address the question of whether things are getting better for wome n in the public service. We conclude that a sensitive answer to this q uestion goes beyond numbers and beyond conventional research.