policy-cycle

Policies are often cyclical in that emerging problems are addressed with the formulation of policies, followed by their implementation and subsequent evaluation. These stages in the policy cycle can be formalized with assigned roles and processes, and consist of many other sub-stages. For example, the policy formulation stage can include problem definition, identification of alternatives, consultations and public hearings, and finally, a decision on the chosen policy. Implementation can include allocating budgetary, assigning implementation roles to different actors, setting specific targets, and possibly developing guidelines. The evaluation and redefinition of the problem can be conducted with the help of formal monitoring systems as a periodic exercise, or it can be an ad-hoc process or a mere societal discussion of the impacts and consequences of existing policies.