Policy Analysis

Tyeesha Perrigan PAD 739: Introduction to Policy Analysis

Masters in Public Administration, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

Introduction
Since the beginning of the semester until now, we have learned a variety of concepts and lessons on Policy Analysis. We have learned Concepts from Patton et al., Ch.2, The Policy Analysis Process to Bardach, Step Two, Assemble Some Evidence and Part II, Assembling Evidence. These lessons have taught us a tremendous amount about how policy analysis process works and how to identify problems and implement solutions. Some important concepts that peaked my interest were Pattons Basic Policy Analysis Process, which is in chapter 2; Pattons crosscutting methods: Identifying and gathering data, which is in chapter 3; and Bardach Appendix C because it directly connects to my policy Issue, which is outsourcing.

Basic Policy Analysis in Six Steps

3.1 Identifying and Gathering Data

Appendix C

Patton et. al. has created a six step process, shown above, which consist of (1) Problem definition, (2) determination of evaluation criteria, (3) identification of alternatives, (4) evaluation of alternatives, (5) comparison of alternatives, and (6) assessment of outcomes. Problem definition is just what it says; define the problem. The researcher must think of all the factors involve to determine the problems. This means that the researcher has to examine the problem from all angles. In addition, they should measure how large or small the problem. Determination of evaluation criteria is to identify the criteria that is central to the problem under analysis and most relevant to the key participants in the decision process. Identification of alternatives can be done through researched analysis and experiments, through brainstorming techniques, and by writing scenarios. Evaluation of alternatives is when the analyst determines that the alternatives satisfied most or all of the major criteria. Also, it can determine if some alternatives will call for further examination. In this case additional data must be collected. Comparison of alternatives is when they have all their alternatives and they figure out which is the best one. When picking them; one must think if the correct problem was identified or did they pick the correct criteria for the problem. They also present this information to the client. Assessment of outcome is when they implement the policy. The policies and programs are maintained and monitored during implementation to assure that they do not change form unintentionally, to measure the impact the policy; to determine whether they are having the impact intended, and to decide whether they should be continued, modified, or terminated. Each step in the process is broken down in other chapters to smaller components that give more detail information. Not all steps are used for every Policy analysis. The steps that are taken can depend on how much time they have to analyze the problem.

In Patton et. al., chapter 3, Crosscutting Methods; there is a section called Identifying and Gathering Data. In this section it gives you some incite about how to go about identifying which information is good for research. Analysis start with a search for existing information in such places as the U.S. Census, Federal and State agency websites and publications, policy journals, periodicals, libraries, survey research organizations and private organizations. Also, establish professional networks so that when important issues arise the researcher can go to those sources and they will be willing to help out anyway they can. The book states that the researcher should begin their search by thinking about the problem, and who is likely to become involved, and about the similar problems from the past. This is a good chapter to read if an individual is having problems knowing what to research and how to pinpoint the best research to use for their policy issues.

In Bardach Appendix C; he focuses on the aspects of organizational structure and process of bear capacity. He poses topics with questions that analyst should be asking. One that caught my attention was performance measurement. He asks, What metrics are available to tell us how effectively and efficiently the agency is performing? Its basically examining outputs and outcomes. This is important to my policy issue; outsourcing because one of the suggested reasons companies outsource is because of performance. The companies need more efficient people to receive better outputs, and they need more efficient workers that will work harder for less money. Another topic that stood out to me was Front-Line Workers and Co-Producers. The Author asks various questions pertaining to the Front-line workers and co-producers. They are revolving around providing motivation and information. Before a company decided to outsource, I wonder do they ask these questions to themselves. Maybe if they did give incentives or motivate their workers they would not have to outsource their companies. The topic culture and communications stood out to me as well. It asks the organization have a strong culture or a weak culture? Does it communicate effectively? Organizations should always have a strong culture because thats what keeps the organization grounded. This helps the organizations grow and as it grows it should always keep their culture because what an organization build is upon is what keeps an organization going. Also, communication is the key. In organizations everybody should be on the same page. Communication keeps everybody aware of whats going on. Appendix C is important because it asks questions that many people dont think about and are not taken into consideration when people see that there is a problem in the organization.

Conclusion
Sine the semester began I have learned a tremendous amount about creation and implementation of policies. The readings have enlightened me about how policy issues resolved in corporate America. The techniques I have learned will be great tools that I will need later in my career, for I plan to manage individuals one day. I am tremendously happy that I am enrolled n this course, and I am looking forward to the remainder of the semester. looking forward to the rest of the semester.

References
1. Bardach, Eugene. "Appendix C Understanding Public and Nonprofit Institutions: Asking The Right Questions." A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis. Fourth ed. Los Angeles: CQ, 2012. 151-57. Print. 2. Patton, Carl V., David S. Sawicki, and Jennifer Clark. Basic Methods of Policy Analysis and Planning. Third ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson, 2013. 43-55, 68-89 Print.

Acknowledgements
I would like to acknowledge the following for their help in making this Poster Project possible!

Professor Guastaferro