Public policies represent state intervention in specific areas guarantee the well-being of citizens and the maintenance of social order. These policies began to take hold after World War II and have evolved over time.
Decisions in this area are often limited by the availability of resources, which are often inherently scarce. It is therefore essential that its use is effective, relevant and relevant. In this context, The decision-making process becomes a key element of public management. In this, objective evidence plays a central role.
Informed decision-making is essential to solving social, economic and environmental problems. Scientific evidence provides data and analysis that can guide policymakers in formulating laws and regulations. For example, in the field of public health, scientific research has proven essential to the implementation of disease control policies, such as vaccines.
Sources of evidence
There are various sources of evidence that policymakers can use:
- Academic research– Peer-reviewed studies, reports, and meta-analyses provide valuable insights on a variety of topics.
- Statistical data: Government institutions and international organizations generate data that helps understand social trends and behaviors.
- Previous experiences: Evaluating past policies can offer lessons on what worked and what did not in the past.
The decision-making process
The evidence-based decision-making process generally includes several steps:
- Identifying the problem: recognize a problem it requires attention.
- Collection of evidence: collect relevant data and perform in-depth analysis.
- Evaluation of options: compare different approaches and its possible impacts.
- Implementation of the policy: carry out the decision takenensuring it is applied correctly.
- Monitoring and evaluation: evaluate the results of the implemented policy and make the necessary adjustments.
Evidence-based decisions
Act on the basis of evidence, both in individual decisions and in the public sphere, helps improve the quality of elections. This is achieved through objective analysis, reducing bias and basing it on evidence rather than opinions or prejudice.
This approach leads to more effective actionswhich take into account previous learning and experience and facilitate the identification and management of risks. It also encourages innovation because it requires an analytical and critical process.
The interaction between science and policy is essential. Science for politics involves the use of scientific evidence to inform decisions in various areas. This requires the organization and systematization of available evidence to make informed decisions based on concrete facts.
The importance of data
Data must constitute the fundamental basis for the formulation of any public policy. To improve state management, there is a need to optimize data collection, administration and use. This involves a strategy that makes the most of the available evidence.
A smart state sees data as a valuable asset. It recognizes the data it has, organizes and classifies it appropriately. It is clearly stated who is responsible for generating, saving and using this data, and it stores it so that it can be used to improve interaction with citizens. Data contains four elements that constitute evidence.
Awareness
A smart state understands its context. It uses administrative records and other data sources to identify its target population and design public policies that meet their needs.
Memory
The State You need to know what data you have and manage it responsibly and securely.. Stores information so it is easily accessible when needed.
Reasoning
A smart state exchange and evaluate data to make informed decisions. This process involves analyzing available information and applying a critical approach to evaluate different scenarios and outcomes.
Action
Finally an intelligent state implement your plans using data systematically. It transforms information into concrete objectives and actions within its public policies, ensuring that every decision is supported by solid evidence.
Data management strategies
To improve data management in the public sector, It is essential to institutionalize its use within the State organization chart.. There are different structures that can be adopted and each has its own advantages. Let’s see
Chief Data Officer centralized (CDO)
Some countries, such as the United Kingdom and Spain, have chosen centralize responsibility for data with a single individual: the Chief Data Officer. This official is responsible for data governance.
Interministerial table of CDOs
Other countries, such as Brazil and the United States, They created interministerial tables where each ministry has its own CDO. This structure allows for consensual decision-making on data management at the government level.
autonomous agency
Other countries decided that data management is the responsibility of an autonomous government agency. This agency operates outside the central administration, as is the case in Australia and Thailand.
Evidence-based decision making is not only desirable, but It became a mandate ensure efficiency, accountability and resource management in the public sphere.
Recommended Reading
Fundamental and applied political sciences
Political science and public administration
