I have worked in the private sector and as a consultant in the public sector working with appointed Department Heads and civil service managers. We have good government programs, but they are impossible to manage no matter how good a manager you are. The problems are unions and the civil service system, but also the civil service system. Both appointed Department Heads and civil service managers are unable to make or implement decisions. Complaint and grievance rules really hurt managers who have disagreements with their staff. Department heads have no control over anyone in their departments. My solution is to outsource all major functions, but appoint and pay for high quality senior managers to whom private firms would report and be responsible for their employees (who would work for them vs the government). Poor performance and you can change contracts or replace contractors.