Policy implementation analysis

Abstract

A policy continuum is conceptualised to represent the policy goals and objectives as one extreme and the policy actualisation the other. Within these two extremes, policy implementation analysis is postulated to commence at four distinct points: (i) prior to a policy pronouncement, to build the most detailed possible picture of the policy proposal and problems associated with implementing the policy proposal (ii) after a policy pronouncement, to provide detailed analysis of the practical problems and consequences of implementing the policy proposal according to an implementation strategy; (iii) during a policy implementation phase, to review the efficiency and effectiveness of the policy implementation strategy and suggest ways and means for improvement; and (iv) after a policy implementation process is over, to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the policy implementation process and to determine whether to continue, redirect and or terminate the policy program. A model for a general framework for policy implementation analysis is presented which comprises four variables, namely the policy to be implemented, the policy target group(s), the policy implementing organisation(s) and the policy environment. Each variable in the model consists of a number of components which are considered to ascertain the ease or difficulty of implementing a policy proposal. Finally a qualitative and quantitative presentation of a policy implementation analysis is attempted.