Shared services: lessons from private sector for public sector domain

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is primarily to analyse the implementation of shared services models in business enterprises or private sector and the benefits realised, thereafter; to a greater extent, focusing on the lessons learnt from such operations and exploring the potential of applying similar models in the public sector. Design/methodology/approach – This research attempts to examine whether or not the concepts regarding shared service in the private sector are valid and applicable in the public sector. Findings – Even though the shared services concept and related models are significantly prevalent across the business enterprises or private sector and government sector, the author argues that the shared services model developed in the private sector may further significantly facilitate governments and public agencies in dealing with the recent changes (i.e. due to global financial crisis) in their environments and to become more effective and efficient. Originality/value – This paper brings together some of the key discussions from the business and private sector on shared services and discusses their applicability in the public sector context.