A policy change involves adapting, amending or creating policies to reflect our continuously evolving society. It requires a broad understanding of all sides that frame a policy issue, and a willingness to explore different options for making positive change happen.
The most effective policy change agents are broad-based coalitions – although grass roots community initiatives, concerned professional groups and determined individuals can also be highly effective in the right circumstances. The best times to try to influence a policy are when something important is at stake for policymakers or the public (an election, loss of funding, a disaster); when the policy is already under discussion and you have supporters; or when new information or publications draw attention to an issue that needs changing.
It’s also helpful to take the pulse of a community before trying to change policies that challenge people’s basic beliefs. If you can find a policy change that is closer to what they already support, they will be more likely to listen and be receptive.
It’s also a good idea to have a team that deals with all policy issues rather than each department having its own policy committees, since the teams may be biased toward their own interests or have different ideas of what makes for effective change. A team approach also makes it easier to track the timeline and process of policy changes. And clearly defining an approval process up front ensures that all parties have clear expectations of what steps must be taken to get a policy change approved and implemented.
About the Author
