Abstract
This paper deals with the question of system governance by putting to the test the model proposed by Olsen in 1988 which singles out four possible ideal-type scenarios. System governance in Italian universities is analysed and through application of a modified version of this model the paper aims to see how the system has evolved over the past twenty years. Since 1989 when statutory autonomy was granted to universities the Italian university system has begun a process of decentralisation which has led the Ministry of the University and the universities themselves to change their relationship with each other. For the future, a pluralistic structure of the system is a feasible alternative to the drift towards fragmentation, development of a “supermarket model” or re-proposal of the “instrument of public policies” model. Setting up differentiated structures and behaviour in universities is vital for improving the overall efficiency of the system. As far as the state is concerned, this means really “steering from a distance” and making it possible to build a platform that functions even when there are different drives and behaviour on the part of universities.