Models of Policy Implementation

Paper Summary:

This paper looks at how once a decision is made with regard to a policy, a method of putting it into effect is required. It examines how implementation is a complex process whereby the means must make the goals achievable and how the process of implementation can be approached in two ways the "top-down" (also known as "the rational model" or "forward mapping") or "bottom-up" (also known as "backward mapping". It shows how British policy is stuck with with the "top-down" approach and how in order to make the best of it, each policy needs to come with clearly defined objectives, an implementation plan, sufficient support and resources and a system of communication and monitoring to ensure minimal deviation.

From the Paper:

"The way things are interpreted by each individual can affect the implementation process. For example, a hospital manager may tell a G.P. that he needs to reduce waiting times for operations. The G.P. may interpret from that that he should perform some of the more minor operations at his surgery as he is qualified to do so. Alternatively, he could interpret that he simply needs to put people off operations if they are not an absolute emergency. The first interpretation would mean patients who have minor operations will be seen sooner and by reducing the number of people he is sending to hospital he is reducing the waiting times for those who are having operations there."

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• Argumentative Essay # 128250 : "Gun Control Policy"

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