The police and ‘the balance’—managing the workload within Swedish investigation units

Abstract Professionals within street-level organizations are essential for the delivery of public services to citizens. However, among a number difficult dilemmas, they have deal with an extensive workload. The police can be seen as good example this; expected solve most crimes, including so-called mass crimes and more spectacular cases that make it into media headlines, often on continually decreasing budget. A key regulating mechanism investigation departments in Swedish is balance. balance described basket which put there desire potential work but not immediate term. purpose this article analyse way rationing workload police. Working consists two processes: limiting buffering Limiting practice reducing situation. Buffering process putting some hold later, identifies five kinds; functional, problematic, quasi, progressive, symbolic buffering. exploration ‘the balance’ contributes our understanding how street level attempt defend their professional jurisdictions, well-being, ability complete duties.