Sport policy convergence: a framework for analysis

Abstract

The growth in the comparative analysis of sport management processes and policy has led to an increased interest in the concept of convergence. However, the concept is too often treated as unproblematic in definition, measurement and operationalisation. It is argued in this paper that a more effective framework for examining claims of convergence is one that analyses the concept in terms of seven dimensions which can be explored through a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection. It is also argued that a deeper understanding of the process of convergence can be gained by operationalising the concept in the context of a selected range of meso-level theories of the policy process or of specific aspects of the process. The proposed analytic framework provides not only a definition of convergence, but also the basis for a more nuanced investigation of hypotheses of convergence.

From welfare state to participation society? Austerity measures and local sport policy in the Netherlands

“…This also raises a danger: sport policy is vulnerable to policy spillovers (Houlihan 2012) from other departments faced with cuts and decentralisation of tasks. Sport could as a result become more utilised or manipulated (Houlihan 2000) by other policy sectors to achieve their goals (e.g.…”

Greener Golf Operations: A Comparative Case Study of Ontario Golf Courses Engaged in Environmental Sustainability Initiatives

“…Within this research, the "societies" are golf courses, and the growing similarities across organizations are specific ES initiatives and the overall incorporation of ES initiatives into course operations. An adaptation of Houlihan's (2012) dimensions of convergence included: motives, inputs, implementation, momentum, and impact. Communication of ES initiatives was seen as an important element of ES, as there has been a notable lack of communication within the golf industry (Calderwood, 2008).…”

“…When discussing implementation, however, it is important to distinguish between "policy as action" and "policy as activity." While both types of instruments involve commitment of resources, "action" is tied to positive impacts on the problem being addressed (i.e., ES), whereas 'activity' remains stated, but unexecuted (Houlihan, 2012). As such, the instruments for implementing ES initiatives at golf courses can be categorized as both "policy as action" and "policy as activity," depending on the stage of their execution and/or level of commitment to the initiative.…”

“…Finally, as suggested by Houlihan (2012), finances/money were identified as inputs. C4,P2 spoke primarily about obtaining environmental credits from the government and funding from external agencies to complete ES initiatives, though he also acknowledged the importance of member approval for spending at the private club.…”

Proyecto POLCOR. Análisis de las políticas deportivas en los programas electorales

“…Las políticas deportivas han sido estudiadas en los últimos años en países nórdicos, anglosajones y germánicos con una metodología de análisis comparado (Houliham 2001;Asle, Houliham, Mangset, Ingve y Rommetvedt 2007;Houliham 2012) pero han sido escasamente analizadas en países latinos y latinoamericanos (Puig, Martínez y García 2010; Seró-dio, Santos, Felgueiras y Oliveira 2011). Además, la investigación no se ha ocupado del análisis específi-co de las propuestas de los partidos políticos.…”