Basic Method of Policy Analysis and Planning

Patton|Swicki|Clark

A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis

Eugene Bradach

Policy Analysis
(Last half of the semester)

Dr. G.

Overview

Using the evidence in the policy Selecting and analyzing alternative Making recommendations Monitoring and evaluating implemented policies, projects and programs.

Applying Evidence to Policy

Evidence is established to show effectiveness
it works

Evidence show the need for policy action

it solves a problem

Evidence guide effective implementation

it can be done

Evidence show cost effectiveness

it is feasible and may even save money

Evidence-Based Policy Approach (EBT)

EBT approach draws on careful data collection,
experimentation, and both quantitative (data in numerical) and qualitative (nonnumercial observations) analysis.

3 key domains of EBT

Process; to understand approaches to enhance the likelihood of
policy adoption;

Content; to identify specific policy elements that are likely to

be effective; and,

Outcomes; to document the potential impact of policy.

Constructing Alternative
(chapter 6)

Alternative is sought because client has perceived that a

problem exists and alternative policy can fix the problem. Generate enough alternative so there will be a choice among several good ones to solve the problem. According to Osborne, quantity breeds quality in creative effort (Pg 217). Brightman believes that some alternatives are waiting to be found while other must be designed. (Pg, 219) Choose the alternative leads to best outcome to fix the problem.

Searching for Alternatives

(Chapter 6)

Where does the analyst obtain alternative?

Researched analysis and experimentation Quick surveys Literature review

Comparison of real-world experiences.

Passive collection and classification Development of typologies Analogy, metaphor and synectics Brainstorming Comparison with an ideal

Making a Recommendation
(Chapter 8)

You are ready to tell your story to your audience/client. Organize the report and give your client a road map. Let the client know what will be in the report. Break it into understandable pieces.

Summarize; problem definition; evaluation criteria; alternatives; analysis and comparison; and, conclusion

use heading & underlining.

Dont bury recommendations

Number them and get them on the front page; highlight the key points
and the policy implications.

Evaluating Alternative
Ex-Ante Evaluation is analysis of policies,
programs and projects before they are undertaken.

Ex-Post Evaluation is evaluation after the policies,

programs and projects are implemented.

Monitoring and evaluation are essential steps to see

that the correct alternative is implemented and to determine whether it is having the desired impact.

References

Bardach, E. (2005). A practical guide for policy analysis: The eightfold path to more effective problem solving. Washington, D.C.: CQ Press. Bowen, S., & Zwi, A. B. (2005). Pathways to Evidence-Informed Policy and Practice: A Framework for Action. PLoS Medicine, 2(7), E166. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.0020166 Brownson, R. C., Chriqui, J. F., & Stamatakis, K. A. (2009). Understanding Evidence-Based Public Health Policy. American Journal of Public Health, 99(9), 1576-1583. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2008.156224 Patton, C., Sawicki, D., & Clark, J. (2012). Establishing Evaluation Criteria. In Basic Methods of Policy Analysis and Planning (3rd ed.). Pearson.

Prepared by Ambreen Riaz

PAD 739 Spring 2013