Question

What is the first step in policy analysis for defining the problem?

1) Identifying the stakeholders
2) Gathering data
3) Analyzing the data
4) Defining the scope of the problem

Answer 1

The first step in policy analysis is defining the scope of the problem, which involves gathering relevant data and consulting various sources to fully understand the issue before moving on to subsequent policy process stages.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first step in policy analysis for defining the problem is defining the scope of the problem. This initial phase involves identifying what information is provided, and often requires gathering data from various sources. These sources may include stakeholders' input, expert information, and performing a root cause analysis to pinpoint the real issue at hand. Legislators typically begin to understand the policy area by consulting policy experts, reading research, and holding hearings. This step precedes other crucial stages such as policy enactment, implementation, and evaluation within the public policy process cycle.