Strategy and Policy Development

Introduction

If you have previously completed a policy analysis, selected a policy option, and are now ready to put it into action, you belong here. If you haven't, see Policy Analysis for more information.

The strategy will serve as a map for your policy journey. Creating a strategy and drafting the policy can help you make the policy option you selected actionable. This process may look different depending on the policy you selected.

Who to include in the process

To understand the strategy and policy development process, you will probably need the help of stakeholders, as the process isn't always straightforward. Consider which stakeholders can help you develop a strategy and draft the policy. Also plan who should be involved in moving it forward.

Include people who can help design your strategy.

• People whose jobs or lives might be affected by the policy
• Community members and leaders
• Subject matter experts
• People who understand the legislative process

How they can contribute

• Develop communication strategy and materials
• Identify and connect you with key contacts and partners
• Figure out clear next steps

Include people who can help develop the policy.

• Subject matter experts
• People who understand the legislative process

How they can contribute:

• Provide critical information for the policy

Define your strategy and develop your policy

1. Develop your enactment strategy

Identify the steps you and your partners will take to enact the policy. Your stakeholders can play an important role in this step. For example, if your policy involves writing a new policy, your stakeholders will know—usually from past experience—the best contacts and partners who can help guide your policy through the appropriate process. Because they previously traveled to the same destination and successfully navigated the same route, you might learn a lot from them. Stakeholders might also be able to help with timing of the policy.

2. Develop and draft the policy

Start by trying to find pre-existing language for the policy. This might come from a model policy or policies others have drafted. In other words, you might be able to get to your destination via a well-traveled route. On the other hand, if nothing exists, you'll need to chart a new course and write new language. As the policy is drafted, consider how it might work in your situation and what additional information or resources may be needed for implementation.

Model policies offer examples of legislative and regulatory language that can be used to address specific policy problems.

How to determine your strategy and policy development is complete?

Strategy

• Your strategy identifies the steps for policy enactment
• You identified what may help or prevent the enactment of the policy

Policy Development

• You researched and considered model policies
• The policy is drafted and clearly shows how it will work in the real world
• You identified any additional information or resources that may be needed for implementation