Policy Process: An Overview

Overview

This course highlights the dynamic, fluid and inherently complex nature of public policy making. It provides an overview of competing models for understanding and managing policy processes, including an analysis of the elements and utility of the Queensland Policy Cycle. Using contemporary case studies, the course draws on the practical experience of participants to develop a rigorous but realistic appraisal of the challenges involved in undertaking a successful policy process.

Course Content

The course outlines policy-making models, the Queensland approach, the role of politics in policy, and the meaning of leadership in policy processes. Using case studies and activities, it goes on to explore policy challenges and personal experiences. Academic models of policy development are included, and participants are given opportunities to reflect on this complex and important topic.

Course Outcomes

By the end of this course attendees should be able to:

• understand the Queensland context for policy development
• appreciate different theoretical models for analysing and understanding policy making
• apply their knowledge through a case study exercise
• understand the dynamism and complexity of policy making and the potential for models to provide frameworks for managing that complexity

Benefits to your organisation

• more informed and thoughtful public administrators with an improved understanding of good policy processes
• efficiency dividends from greater capacity for policy analysis by workers
• improved performance in terms of flexibility of response and intelligent use of discretion

Benefits to you

• an understanding of policy processes
• improved confidence through greater understanding of the challenges of policy analysis, development and implementation
• practical tips on responding flexibly to policy problems