All around the world, residents of major cities want more input in their municipal officials' decision making, according to a report from the London-based Accenture Institute for Public Service Value (AIPSV). Based on day-long panel discussions with residents of large cities like New York and Los Angeles, the report shows that people want high-quality, efficient services, greater engagement with municipal governments on quality of life issues, and more clarity and accountability from government.

The panel discussions also were held in London, Sydney, Singapore, Berlin, Paris and Madrid as part of the Accenture Global Cities Forum. "People want more active, participatory relationships with their governments and greater involvement in the decision-making process that drives the public services affecting their lives," said AIPSV Director Greg Parston in a statement. The report found that improving social and economic outcomes, balancing choice and flexibility with fairness and common good, engaging the public and clarifying accountability were key components in improving the relationship between residents and governments.

More information is available at www.accenture.com/globalcitiesforum/.