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Better results for kids and families through research-informed policy

Implementation

Policies must be linked to or  contain provisions for, implementation and accountability in order to ensure the goals have been attained.  This is established through both monitoring results (what we are trying to accomplish) and monitoring performance (how we tried to accomplish it).

If there has been a systemic weakness in policymaking, it has been the separation of policy formation and implementation. To determine whether policy goals are being achieved, policymakers can explore the impact existing policies have on the ground, revisit the results of newly implemented policies, and investigate impediments to successful implementation.[i] 

 

What  You Need to Know

  • Aligning needs and goals. Carefully matching the approach to jurisdiction needs, intended outcome and target population will help ensure that the goal is accomplished.
  • Providing resources. Policymakers should ensure the availability of all resources, financial and otherwise, needed for successful implementation.
  • Evaluating context. It is important to consider the new policy proposal in the context of the multiple policies operating at different levels of government.
  • Identifying barriers. Effective policy development requires identification of factors that may impede effective implementation.

[i]  Joining it up Locally, the Evidence Base, London: DETR, 2000; and Stewart, M., Goss, S., Clarke, R., Gillanders, G., Rowe, J., and Shaftoe, H. Cross-Cutting Issues Affecting Local Government, London : DETR, 1999

States

Measuring Success in Results and Dollars.  Connecticut received the first annual Con Hogan Award from the National Conference of State Legislatures for establishing a results- based performance and budgeting system.

States

Juvenile Justice Bill Tracking Database. Created by the National Conference of State Legislatures, a searchable database allows you to locate juvenile justice legislation by State, topic, key word, year, status, or primary sponsor.