Framing public policy decisions

To solve or resolve public policy problems requires decisions. The intent is to choose the best alternatives. The way that the notion of best is defined and measured in each case is critical. A structured process is outlined to elicit and measure the consequences that should be used to evaluate alternatives and identify the best ones. The foundation is the public values that are used to frame the policy decision. Several applications of the process to define public values are described. The uses of these values for creating alternatives, identifying information needs, constructively involving stakeholders and evaluating alternatives are illustrated.

Duke Scholars

Author Ralph L. Keeney Fuqua School of Business