General categories of policy models

Policy Models

• Possible explanations of parts of a policy situation. They evaluate or predict probable outcomes or prescribe what should be the better alternative.

• They can be descriptive, evaluative, prescriptive, and normative.

• They can be verbal, symbolic, procedural or a combination of them.

Four general categories of policy models

1. Normative

2. Prescriptive

3. Descriptive

4. Evaluative

Normative policy model

• Answers the question: What ought to be done?

• It deals with value judgments, ethics, and ideals, what government ought to do, based on beliefs about what is good, fair, just, or desirable for

• society.

• For this, policy is driven by values, not just data.

• Usually reflected in:

  • Policy goals and visions (e.g., inclusive growth, social justice)

  • Constitutional principles (equity, accountability, transparency)

  • Ethical frameworks for public servants

  • Debates on redistribution, welfare, and regulation

Prescriptive policy model

• Answers the question: What should be done and how to do it?

• Recommends concrete policy options

• Specifies instruments, strategies, or designs

• Is often based on evidence, models, and evaluation

Descriptive policy model

• Answers the question: What is the policy, and how does it work in practice

• Describe existing policies

• Explain policy processes and arrangements

• Map actors, institutions, and implementation mechanisms

Evaluative policy model

• Answers the question: Is the policy working, and is it good?

• Evaluative analysis introduces criteria and judgment. It assesses policy performance using standards:

  • Effectiveness

  • Efficiency

  • Equity

  • Sustainability

  • Responsiveness

  • Impact