Policy Analysis

Overview

Policy analysis is a systematic method for evaluating alternative courses of action to address public problems. It follows a structured process: define the problem → identify alternatives → establish criteria → evaluate → recommend. It applies to government policy, corporate policy, and organizational decision-making.

Framework

IRON LAW: Problem Definition Determines Everything

How you define the problem determines which solutions are considered.
"Traffic congestion" suggests road-building. "Excessive car dependency"
suggests public transit. "Inefficient land use" suggests zoning reform.

The same observable situation can be framed as different problems,
leading to completely different policy responses. Make the framing
explicit and examine alternatives.