Creativity and innovation in Maltese local councils

Abstract

Local governance is an important democratic tool which helps governments to implement their strategies and policies. Maltese Local Councils are no exception. This study revolves around the issues of creativity and innovation in such councils which are adopted to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This study aims at giving a better understanding of how Maltese Local Councils operate within a set of rules that define their framework; and how they make best use of it to enhance their functioning. Among the subjects treated in this study are: the accumulation of financial resources in order to buy innovation; the human resource as an enabler; the fostering of new ideas; methods of communication and the use of new technology; and the procurement process. Interaction with the private sector is also studied. Based on the findings of the study a set of thirteen recommendations for improvement are given.