Abstract

In recent years, the opening of Offices for Relations with the Public ("Uffici relazioni con il pubblico", URPs) in public facilities has involved communications experts in lively debate on the goals and potential of this innovation. Rather than interpreting URPs as a means to develop public communication, this study re-reads them in terms of space and organizational innovation. The study concentrates in particular on the municipal administrations. It calls particular attention to the innovative impact of URPs as an opportunity for the organizational development of these bodies. However, it also highlights the tendency for this "innovation" to be constrained by familiar organizational schemes and consolidated work practices. Nevertheless, the study argues that there is a need as well as the will to assess the opportunities for growth and improvement through action more closely focused on what happens within and without the administration.