JSB178 Lecture Notes - Lecture 8: Policy Analysis, Decision-Making
Document Summary
Policy analysis is researching an issue so that a decision maker has all the necessary information to make an informed choice. This includes looking at all possible alternatives and considering a large range of factors. Policy analysis is generally conducted by either a specialised policy unit within a department (non-political) or a by a policy advisor to a minister (political). Each option is tested for cost and benefit prioritised identified. The policy analysis sequence is essentially a simplified version of a rational model of policy analysis. Althaus, bridgman and davis explain the sequence as: formulate the problem, set out objectives and goals. Identify decision parameters: search for an alternative, propose a solution or options. Objectives can be tough to pin down and can be restricted by other factors. Objectives are often conflicting or vague and policy analysts will produce a range of options for decision makers.
