Chapter 17 Port Governance, Devolution and the Matching Framework: A Configuration Theory Approach

The purpose of this chapter is to apply contingency theory to the management and governance of ports. It describes port devolution as part of a larger attempt by governments to apply the “one best way” principles of new public management (NPM) to the transportation sector. As an alternative approach, the authors develop a Matching Framework that identifies and focuses attention on key contingency variables in port governance and management. An application of the Matching Framework to the Canadian port experience and its implications for port management and research are provided.