Public Policy

Evaluation of PoliSim 2.0

SIMZ-LAAS-001 3 Formulating and Evaluating Public Policy

Formulation of a policy requires a detailed analysis of the entire system, stakeholder requirements and the possible impacts of the policy. Implementation of a policy could be  hindered by the lack of an in-depth analysis in the planning stages. There would necessarily be certain known and unknown effects of a policy. One of the most critical functions of a policy maker is to understand the requirements of stakeholders in order to minimize unwanted outcomes of a policy. Over a period of time, as the context and setting of a policy changes, the policy may need to be reexamined and modified. This simulation explores the formulation, evaluation and modification of a policy to protect salmon from extinction in the Wamayo River Basin while taking commercial development into consideration as well.

SIMZ-LAAS-0014           Incorporating Stakeholder Interests in Public Policy

Public administration primarily deals with policy implementation. Successful implementation of a policy would depend on how well defined the policy focus is and whether different stakeholder interests have been represented. How a policy benefits society as a whole must also be considered. Predicting and planning for the impact of the policy once it is implemented is also a part of the process. In certain cases, a policy may advance its objectives but have other unwanted effects that must be mitigated. This simulation explores the creation and implementation of a policy to control rental rates and property development in Chuckalee, California. The policy is subsequently to be modified given the impact it has had on the city.

Appropriate for an advanced course.

SIMZ-LAAS-0015           Managing Challenges in Public Policy Formulation

Given the limited resources of the government and the unlimited and often conflicting needs of the constituents, it often becomes difficult for the policy administrator to satisfy the demands of all stakeholders and constituents. This simulation looks at deciding what issues deserve policy attention and at gathering relevant information from the concerned publics. In addition, this

simulation also captures the iterative nature of policy-making with its inherent notions of negotiation and compromise in the policy formulation process.

SIMZ-LAAS-0021           Understanding Political Factors in Public Policy

The representatives of state and local governments are much closer to the general electorate than the representatives of the federal government. They are, therefore, expected to be more aware of the daily issues — such as transportation, street lighting and garbage disposal — affecting the local populace. It is due to these reasons that political pressures and policy formulation at the state and local government level are quite different than those at the federal level. This simulation illustrates the political and public pressures that impact policy formulation at the state and at the city level. The learner will select appropriate policies, first at the state level and then at the city level, to address certain issues. The learner will also secure the necessary financing to implement the selected policies. The learner should ensure that while the electorate remains happy and the problems are resolved, the political future of the policy formulator is not jeopardized.