PA 141: POLICY ANALYSIS, PROGRAM & PROJECT DEVELOPMENT

CHAPTER 3.1

INTRODUCTION
TO POLICY
ANALYSIS
OBJECTIVES

Introduction Analysis
What is Policy Analysis Types of Policy Analysis

Process Tools
Steps in Analyzing a Policy Methods in Analyzing a Policy
 PUBLIC POLICY
The term public policy always refers to the actions of
government and intentions that determine those actions (Clark
Cochran et al., 2010).

Stated most simply, public policy is the sum of government

activities, whether acting directly or through agents, as it has an
Influence on the life of citizens (B. Guy Peters, 2010).

Whatever governments choose to do or not to do (Thomas Dye,

2013).
PUBLIC POLICY PROCESS

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influences/#google_vignette
PUBLIC POLICY PROCESS

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 PUBLIC POLICY ANALYSIS
ONE OF OUR BIG QUESTIONS:

IS IT ALL JUST
OPINION?
POLICY ANALYSIS
Do not believe in anything simply because you have
heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is
spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in
anything simply because it is found written in your
religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on
the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe
in traditions because they have been handed down for
many generations. But after observation and analysis,
when you find that anything agrees with reason and is
conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then
accept it and live up to it."

Gautama Siddharta, the Buddha

POLITICAL SYSTEM

The Philippines has a democratic system with a strong

presidential form of government. Policy analysis needs
to consider the roles of the executive, legislative, and
judicial branches, as well as the influence of political
parties and interest groups.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONTEXT

The Philippines is a developing country with

significant socio-economic challenges, such as
poverty, inequality, and environmental
degradation. Policy analysis should address these
challenges and consider their impact on different
segments of society.
 POLICY ANALYSIS
WORKING DEFINITION

The systematic evaluation of the policy

process, policy alternatives and policy
outcomes
 POLICY ANALYSIS
According to Encyclopedia Britannica, it is the examination and evaluation of
available options to address various economic, social, or other public issues.
Effective policy analysis, whether to enact new policies or amending existing
ones, is critical in the policymaking process. The process includes many facets,
involving empirical research and statistical data collection, as well as the
participation of key stakeholders such as economists, community members, and
public officials tasked with enacting policy.
 POLICY ANALYSIS
What is the most effective way to improve air quality? How can a
society optimize access to education? How should a municipal
government pay for an expensive infrastructure project?

These questions often have multiple answers.

 POLICY ANALYSIS

BUT...
Policy analysis can help determine the best option that will produce the
most desirable result. What policy analysis does is help lay out the goals
of a potential policy, examine the various strengths and weaknesses of
each policy option, and identify the most viable one.
 POLICY ANALYSIS
Policies that have been developed and implemented should be
analyzed periodically.
Policy analysis refers to both the process of assessing policies
or programs and the product of that analysis using qualitative
and quantitative data.
Analysis can be done during all phases of policymaking from
agenda setting to policy formulation to implementation.
IMPORTANCE OF POLICY ANALYSIS

To assess the situation.

To seek general acceptance and consistency
with the current political environment and
social and healthcare issues.
Provide the opportunity for modifications.
Results of analysis can facilitate discussion.
Provide evidence for decision-making.
Provide evidence for adaptations.
ACCORDING TO PORCHE (2012), THERE
ARE TWO FOCI FOR POLICY ANALYSIS:

Analysis policy
Analysis policy
ACCORDING TO PORCHE (2012), THERE
ARE TWO FOCI FOR POLICY ANALYSIS:

Analysis of policy
Analysis policy
ACCORDING TO PORCHE (2012), THERE
ARE TWO FOCI FOR POLICY ANALYSIS:

Analysis of policy
Analysis for policy
ANALYSIS OF POLICY
can be viewed as a retrospective process that
explores the purpose of the policy and what
comprised and established the policy.

To describe, analyze, and evaluate policies that

are already in place. This often involves
examining the policy's historical context, its
components, its implementation, and its
impacts (intended and unintended).
ANALYSIS FOR POLICY
is prospective and explores potential outcomes
if a specific policy is developed and
implemented.
To provide information and recommendations
to policymakers to help them make informed
decisions about future policies. This involves
identifying problems, analyzing potential
solutions, and assessing the likely impacts of
different policy options.
 TYPES OF POLICY ANALYSIS
in other
DESCRIPTIVE PRESCRIPTIVE
words... ANALYSIS OF ANALYSIS FOR NEW
EXISTING POLICY POLICY

This focuses on This is concerned with

understanding why a developing and
particular policy was evaluating potential
developed, how it is being policy options for
implemented, and what its addressing a specific
effects have been. problem.
 IN ADDITION TO THESE MAIN TWO TYPES
Policy analysis is relevant at various stages of the policy process:
Before Policy Formulation
When a problem is identified, policy analysis helps explore different
approaches and design the most suitable policy.
During Policy Implementation
Analysis can assess if a policy is working as intended and identify any
necessary adjustments.
After Policy Implementation
Evaluation helps determine the policy's impact and inform future decisions.
Ongoing Analysis
In a dynamic environment, policies need continuous review to ensure they
remain relevant and effective.
POLICY ANALYSIS DEPENDENT ON:
Upon access to data sources
such as valid and reliable
documents, interviews, focus
groups, and government or
agency reports.
POLICY ANALYSIS DEPENDENT ON:
Policy analysts need to be critical of their
sources and ensure that the data they use is:
Valid: Accurately measures what it is
supposed to measure.
Reliable: Consistent and can be
replicated.
Relevant: Directly related to the policy
issue at hand.
Timely: Up-to-date and reflects the
current situation.
HOW DO WE CONDUCT POLICY
ANALYSIS
While specific
methods vary, the
general process
involves
 STEPS IN POLICY ANALYSIS PROCESS
(KRAFT & FURLONG)

Define & Analyze Construct Policy Develop Criteria

the Problem Alternatives for Evaluation

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

Draw Assess the

Conclusions Alternatives

Step 5 Step 4
STEPS IN
POLICY
ANALYSIS
PROCESS
STEPS IN POLICY ANALYSIS PROCESS
STEP TYPES OF QUESTIONS ILLUSTRATIONS

What is the problem faced?

Where does it exist? How is cell phone use related to auto

accidents?
Define and Who or what is affected?
What is the potential to reduce accident
Analyze the
How did it develop? rates through policy action?
Problem
What are the major causes? How does cell phone use compare to
other distractions while driving?
How might the causes be affected by policy
action?
1. Define and Analyze the Problem:
What is the issue? Be specific. Instead of just "unemployment," we might say "high rates of youth unemployment (ages 15-
24) in urban areas of the Philippines, particularly among those with some college education but lacking work experience."
This clarifies who is affected and where.

What are the dimensions of the problem? Consider the scope, severity, duration, and distribution. How many are
unemployed? How long are they unemployed? Are certain regions or demographics disproportionately affected? For our
example, we'd look at unemployment rates by age, region, education level, and perhaps even gender. We might find that
while the national unemployment rate is X%, youth unemployment is Y%, and even higher in specific cities.

Why is this a problem? Articulate the consequences. Unemployment leads to lost income, decreased economic productivity,
social unrest, increased poverty, and potential long-term skill degradation. For youth, it can mean delayed career starts and
difficulty gaining crucial experience, impacting their lifetime earnings.

Who are the stakeholders? Identify the individuals, groups, or organizations affected by the problem or involved in its
solution. For youth unemployment, stakeholders include the unemployed youth themselves, their families, employers,
educational institutions, government agencies (e.g., Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Education), and
even the broader economy.
1.1. Establish Goals and Objectives:
What do we want to achieve? Goals are broad, aspirational statements. For example, a goal might be "to reduce
youth unemployment in urban areas of the Philippines."

Objectives are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). They break down the goal
into concrete steps. Examples:
Reduce the youth unemployment rate (15-24) in Baguio City by 5% within the next three years.
Increase the number of youth enrolled in vocational training programs by 10% annually for the next two
years.
Facilitate the creation of 50,000 entry-level jobs for college graduates in the IT sector within the next five
years.
STEPS IN POLICY ANALYSIS PROCESS
STEP TYPES OF QUESTIONS ILLUSTRATIONS

To reduce drivers' cell phone use, should

state governments institute fines?
Construct
What policy options might be considered for Should states try to educate drivers on
Policy
dealing with the problem cell phone use?
Alternatives
Is it technologically feasible to disable
cell phones in a moving car?
2. Identify Alternative Policies/Construct Policy Alternatives:
Brainstorm a range of potential solutions. Don't limit yourself initially. Think creatively. For
youth unemployment, some alternatives might be:
a. Vocational training programs: Focus on skills in demand by industries.
b. Internship programs: Provide opportunities for work experience.
c. Job fairs and career counseling: Connect job seekers with employers.
d. Tax incentives for businesses: Encourage hiring young graduates.
e. Entrepreneurship programs: Support youth in starting their own businesses.
f. Improving the quality of education: Better align education with labor market needs.
g. Public works programs: Create temporary jobs in infrastructure projects.
h. Wage subsidies: Help employers afford to hire young workers.
STEPS IN POLICY ANALYSIS PROCESS
STEP TYPES OF QUESTIONS ILLUSTRATIONS

What criteria are most important for the

What criteria are most suitable for the problem regulation of cell phones?
and the alternatives?
What options might be most effective in
What are the costs of action? discouraging drivers from using cell
Develop
phones?
Criteria For
What is the likely effectiveness?
Efvaluation Will people find these options
Is it socially and politically feasible? acceptable?

Is it socially equitable? Is it ethical to restrict individual behavior

to achieve a social goal?
3. Develop evaluation criteria. How will you judge the effectiveness of each policy? Criteria
might include:
Effectiveness: How well will the policy achieve the objectives?
Efficiency: What is the cost per outcome? Is it the most cost-effective solution?
Equity: Does the policy distribute benefits and costs fairly across different groups?
Feasibility: Is the policy politically, administratively, and technically feasible? Can it be
implemented?
Sustainability: Can the policy be maintained over the long term?
STEPS IN POLICY ANALYSIS PROCESS
STEP TYPES OF QUESTIONS ILLUSTRATIONS

Which alternatives are better than others? Are fines or education more likely to
reduce drivers' cell phone use?
What kind of analysis might help to distinguish
Assess the better and worse policy alternatives? How successful are the efforts of states
Alternatives and localities to regulate cell phone use?
Is the evidence available?
What evidence is needed to answer
If not, how can it be produced? these questions?
4. Assess each alternative against the criteria. Use data and evidence to support your
assessments. For example, you might analyze the cost-effectiveness of vocational training
programs versus tax incentives, or the impact of different programs on specific demographic
groups. You might look at best practices from other countries.
Consider unintended consequences. What are the potential negative side effects of each
policy? For example, tax incentives might benefit large corporations more than small
businesses.
STEPS IN POLICY ANALYSIS PROCESS
STEP TYPES OF QUESTIONS ILLUSTRATIONS

Should state governments impose stiff

fines?
Which policy option is the most desirable given
the circumstances and the criteria for
Draw Would fines be accepted as legitimate
evaluation?
Conclusions action?

What other factors should be considered?

How might the action be made more
acceptable?
5. Draw Conclusions
Recommend a Policy or Policies:
Based on your analysis, recommend the most promising policy or combination of policies.
Explain your reasoning clearly, highlighting the strengths of your recommendation and
addressing potential weaknesses. Acknowledge any uncertainties or limitations in your
analysis. For example, you might recommend a combination of targeted vocational training
programs, internship subsidies, and improvements in career counseling services, arguing that
this multi-pronged approach addresses the problem most effectively and efficiently.
Discuss implementation strategies. How will the recommended policy be put into practice?
Who will be responsible? What resources are needed?
Consider evaluation and monitoring. How will the policy's effectiveness be measured? What
data needs to be collected? This allows for adjustments and improvements over time.
6. Communicate Your Findings:
Present your analysis in a clear and concise way to decision-makers and other
stakeholders. Use visuals, such as charts and graphs, to make your findings more
accessible. Tailor your communication to your audience. A policy brief might be
appropriate for government officials, while a presentation might be better for a
community group.
ADDITIONAL
GUIDE FOR
POLICY
ANALYSIS
Problem Definition: This is the crucial first step. What exactly is the problem? Is it rising unemployment among young
people? Deforestation? Corruption in local government? A clear definition is essential. In the Philippines, this often
involves gathering data from government agencies like the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), conducting
consultations with stakeholders, and reviewing existing studies.

Establishing Criteria: How will we judge the success of a policy? Common criteria in the Philippines include:
Effectiveness: Will the policy actually solve the problem?
Efficiency: Is it the most cost-effective way to address the problem? Are we maximizing the use of limited public
funds?
Equity: Does the policy benefit everyone fairly, or does it disproportionately advantage certain groups? Does it
address regional disparities?
Feasibility: Can the policy be implemented given the political, economic, and social realities in the Philippines? Does
it have public support? Are there enough resources?
Sustainability: Will the policy have long-term positive effects, or will it create new problems down the road? Does it
consider environmental impacts?
Identifying Alternatives: Brainstorming different ways to address the problem. For example, to address traffic
congestion, alternatives might include building more roads, improving public transportation, implementing congestion
pricing, or promoting work-from-home arrangements. It is important to consider the specific context, including existing
infrastructure, cultural norms, and political realities.

Assessing Alternatives: This involves analyzing each alternative based on the criteria. This might involve cost-benefit
analysis, impact assessments, and stakeholder consultations. For example, when considering a new toll road, analysts
would need to estimate the costs of construction, the potential benefits in terms of reduced travel time, and the social
and environmental impacts.

Comparing Alternatives: Presenting the results of the assessment in a clear and concise way, often using tables or
charts. This allows policymakers to easily compare the different options.

Recommendation/Conclusion: Based on the analysis, recommending the most promising policy option. This
recommendation should be supported by evidence and clearly explain why the chosen option is the best.
THANK
YOU!
Patricia Mae D. Morales