Policy analysis
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Policy analysis is the systematic evaluatation of alternative means of achieving social goals. It is frequently deployed in the public sector but is equally applicable to other kinds of organizations.
Policy analysis refers to the analysis of existing or prospective policies with the intention of improving social welfare. One common methodology is to define the problem and evaluation criteria; identify all alternatives; evaluate them; and recommend the best policy option.
Policy analysis differs from program evaluation in that it attempts to evaluate changes to policies and programs rather than evaluating their current performance. Policy analysts can come from many backgrounds including sociology, psychology, economics, political science, public policy, and public administration.
See also
References: Eugene Bardach, A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis: The Eightfold Path to More Effective Problem Solving David L. Weimer and Aidan R. Vining, Policy Analysis: Concepts and Practice, Prentice Hall