Recent articles by Scott D. Pattison from governing.com http://www.governing.com/authors/rss/rss/?a=87483877 Scott D. Pattison was a GOVERNING contributor. He is executive director of the National Association of State Budget Officers. Branding for Excellence http://www.governing.com/columns/mgmt-insights/Branding-for-Excellence.html Creating a brand could help public-sector managers improve performance, create a culture of excellence and impel everyone working for the agency to think about their core mission. Eliminating Silos in Government http://www.governing.com/columns/mgmt-insights/Eliminating-Silos-in-Government.html The problem with silos is that they cause people to ignore the big picture, and instead, focus insularly. A Little Financial Training Goes a Long Way http://www.governing.com/columns/mgmt-insights/A-Little-Financial-Training.html Senior officials in state and local government are understandably appointed for their subject-matter expertise, but they should have some basic financial management skills as well. Managing Through a Transition http://www.governing.com/columns/mgmt-insights/Managing-Through-a-Transition.html After an election, it is critical to prime your staff for a transition. Otherwise, anxious public employees will give more sway to rumors.