Policy analysis has been variously defined by
scholars. For instance Ukeles (1977:223) defines it as:
The systematic investigation of the alternative policy
options and the assembly and integration of the evidence for and against each
option. It involves a problem solving approach, the collection and
interpretation of information, and some attempt to predict the consequences of
alternative courses of action.
Poster (1978:1) defines policy analysis as “analysis of the determinants, characteristic, and implications of public policies and programs and the substantive consequences and outcomes they produce”. It is a set of techniques that seeks to answer the question of what the probable effects of a policy will be before they actually analysis as an activity that occurs before a policy comes into effect. But the fact remains that policy analysis can take place even when a policy has come into effect. However, a policy analysis undertaken on a program that is already in effect is more appropriately called a program evaluation.
For the purposes of this book,
policy analysis is defined as a multidisciplinary and systematic investigation
aimed at gathering and analyzing information about the likely consequences of
public polices both before and after they occur. All policy analysis involve
the application of systematic research techniques (drawn largely from the
social sciences and based on measurements of program effectiveness, quality,
cost, and impact) to the formulation, execution, and evaluation of public
policy to create a more rational administrative system. Public policy analysis
is aimed at improving the basis for public policy making. The fundamental
purpose of policy analysis, according to Beckman (1975) is, “to facilitate the
reading of sound policy decisions”. Policy analysis also contributes to better
policy implementation and performance through studies, determination of
problems and the means to resolve them. Brewer and Deleon (1983:20) have
developed the following processes of policy analysis:
THE
PROCESS OF POLICY ANALYSIS
1. Initiation
Initiation is the first stage in the process of policy
analysis. It involves the conception of creative thoughts about a problem. This
is further followed by the definition of objectives, designing of several
innovative options, and then a tentative preliminary exploration of concepts,
claims and possibilities.
2.
Estimation
This second stage involves a thorough investigation of
concepts and claims, a scientific examination of impacts of continuing to do
nothing as well as of each considered intervention option. Other issues
involved under this stage include normative examination of likely consequences;
development of program outlines; and establishment of expected performance
criteria and indications.
3.
Selection
The selection stage involves debating on possible
options to be chosen; compromises, bargains, and accommodations; reduction of
uncertainty about options; integration of ideological and other non-rational
elements of decision; decisions among options; and assignment of executive
responsibility.
4.
Implementation
The fourth stage is the implementation stage. This is
a crucial stage in the process, and involves development of rules, regulations,
and guidelines to carry out decision. Another important aspect of this stage is
the modification of decision to reflect operational constraints, including
incentive and resources. This leads to the translation of decisions into
operational terms, and finally the setting of program goals and standards,
including schedule of operation.
5. Evaluation
This
stage in the process is concerned with the comparison of expected and actual
performance levels according to established criteria, as well as the assignment
of responsibility for discovered discrepancies in performance.
6. Termination
This
is the final stage in the process of policy analysis. The focus at this stage
is the determination of costs, consequences, and benefits for reductions or
closures.
- PROBLEMS OF POLICY EVALUATION - PUBLIC POLICY
- POLICY EVALUATION TECHNIQUES - PUBLIC POLICY
- TYPES POLICY EVALUATION - PUBLIC POLICY
- POLICY EVALUATION - PUBLIC POLICY
- DETERMINANTS OF POLICY IMPLEMENTATION RESULTS - PU...
- POLICY IMPLEMENTATION STAGE - PUBLIC POLICY
- STAGES OF POLICY FORMULATION - PUBLIC POLICY
- POLICY FORMULATION - PUBLIC POLICY
- PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION IN PUBLIC POLICY
- PUBLIC POLICY PROCESS
- THEORETICAL APPROACHES TO PUBLIC POLICY STUDY
- FEATURES OF PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS
- THE PROCESS OF POLICY ANALYSIS
- CONCEPT OF PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS
- EVOLUTION OF PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS
- RELEVANCE OF STUDYING PUBLIC POLICY
- WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF PUBLIC POLICY
- WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF PUBLIC POLICY
- WHAT IS THE MEANING OF PUBLIC POLICY
- FUNDAMENTALS OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION