Policy Analysis

Policy Analysis

Public Policy has a direct correlation with Politics & Government.
Policies address problems and create opportunities.
It is a formal/authoritative documented statement of intentions
It results from decisions made by the government
The policy can be varied. General or Specific, Simple or Complex, Written or Unwritten, Discretionary or Detailed.
It can also be for all or be limited to a section of its people.
Public Policy must be related to Public Interest
Developed at Central and Local Govt Levels
"Whatever Governments choose to do or not to do" - Thomas Dye, 1972

David Easton (1953) - Public Policy is the authoritative allocation of values for the whole society.

The Elements of Policy: Intentions, Goals, Plans/Proposals, Programmes, Decisions/Choices, Effects.

Policies should not be made in a vacuum. Rather in reaction to an issue or a new issue. Social & Economic Conditions

Approaches to Public Policy Development
Reactive Approach - Responding to issues and factors that emerge
Proactive Approach - Response for identifying potential issues & factors, predicting & preparing for contingency.

Key Factors & Considerations in Policy Development
Public Interest, Effectiveness, Efficiency, Fairness & Equity, Reflective/Thoughtful

Public Policy may never have a single definition.
It is made in response to a problem, made in the public interest, interpreted & implemented by public & private actors, oriented toward a goal or desired state.
It is constantly changing, a complex process that takes place on multiple levels.

Good Public Policy is socially acceptable, politically sustainable & technically correct.