What does 'public administration' encompass?

Public administration encompasses the implementation of government policy and management of public affairs because it involves the processes and practices through which public agencies fulfill their missions. This includes not only carrying out the laws enacted by legislative bodies but also organizing and overseeing the various services that make up the public sector. Public administrators play a crucial role in translating policy decisions into actionable programs, managing resources, and evaluating the effectiveness of these initiatives to ensure they serve the public effectively and efficiently.

While reviewing government budgets and expenditures, managing non-profit organizations, and enforcing laws and regulations are aspects related to public administration, they do not fully capture its broader definition. Public administration is fundamentally about the operational side of government, where policies are executed and the day-to-day management of public resources and services is conducted, making it pivotal for achieving the objectives of governance and public welfare.