Institutionalization of results-based budgeting in the public sector: political and economic pressures

PurposeThis paper aims to explain the interaction of external and internal influences in the imposition of results-based budgeting (RBB) in a public sector organization, subsequent to public sector reforms.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses an explanatory case study of a state-imposed RBB system, drawing evidence from in-depth interviews, document analysis, and direct observation. The paper draws on Alsharari's (2013) contextual framework which synthesizes three approaches to analyzing institutional change: Dillard et al.'s (2004) New Institutional Sociology (NIS) framework for analyzing externalities; Burns and Scapens' (2000) framework inspired by old institutional economics (OIE) for internal processes of change and Hardy (1996) power and politics mobilization model. In addition, Pettigrew's (1987) contextual framework is used for its holistic incorporation of different perspectives and to integrate theoretical perspectives.FindingsThe findings show that Jordan's National Reform Agenda represented a turning towards the New Public Management (NPM) model, following entrenched poor state budget performance. The findings also show that NPM ideas, such as results orientation and performance-based accountability, are invoked in response to common economic and social pressures, such as budget insufficiency and public antipathy to government service provision, as well as the pressures of globalization. Institutional analysis confirms the “path-dependent” and evolutionary nature of accounting change implemented in Jordan's customs agency. The study also concludes, from observation of the organization's work routines and practices, that the implementation of accounting change was not merely a symbolic innovation.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has significant implications for politicians, economists, academics and government leaders as it provides fieldwork evidence about the role of RBB in the economy and public policy. Changes at the political and economic level, particularly with respect to the introduction of the fiscal reforms and customs modernization projects, have resulted in changes to structures and systems at the organizational level, particularly the implementation of RBB. This study is subject to normal limitations. The role of legitimate power in the organizational change process can be subject to further examination, especially in the public sectors of developing countries. A longitudinal study could also affirm the institutional analysis of the present case study.Originality/valueThe study contributes to accounting literature by providing further understanding and a thick explanation of the dynamics of accounting change in the Jordanian public sector. It utilizes a contextual framework for studying accounting change that attempts to overcome the limitations of single-dimension theories, such as NIS and OIE, by integrating levels of analysis. The case study provides insight into how internal dynamics interact with external pressures and recognizes the organizational field as a link between political, economic and organizational levels. It more directly addresses the dynamics of emergence, diffusion and implementation of new accounting criteria and practices.