Crafting Great Analysis
Build the skills and knowledge required to conduct a robust, multi-criteria analysis of an issue
Description
This course builds the skills and knowledge required to conduct a robust, multi-criteria analysis of an issue. Engaging and practical, the course uses real-life policy examples to guide participants through the policy development process, including: defining a problem, identifying solution options, selecting criteria, conducting analysis, confronting trade-offs and risks, and coming to a decision. It comprises ten hours of learning over two weeks, plus a one-hour wrap-up session.
Testimonial 2
"I really enjoyed the course, it felt like it was the direction and clarity I was missing. Every policy person should do this course"
- Policy Analyst
Ministry of Education
Testimonial 1
"I found this course hugely beneficial, as it provided me with a strategy to sharpen my thinking when trying to work through multiple issues at once"
- Senior Advisor
Ministry of Education
Who should attend
This course is best suited for graduates, subject matter experts who are new to government advisory roles, policy analysts, and whole teams who wish to establish a shared view of quality advice.
What is covered in the course
Session one
- Introduction to analytical frameworks.
- A framework to conduct a multi-criteria analysis.
- Define the problem.
- Identify types of evidence and data that are useful for policy.
- Coursework: write a problem definition, create an evidence plan.
Session two
- Develop criteria.
- Develop solution options.
- Understand trade-offs.
- Understand how to identify, minimise and mitigate risk.
- Identify a preferred solution option to recommend to your decision maker.
- Coursework: complete a decision matrix to arrive at a preferred solution.
Wrap up
- Recap on key learnings.
- 'Ask Me Anything' with your facilitator.
What you will learn
By attending this course you will:
- understand how to apply an analytical framework to issues of different complexity
- understand how to integrate analysis into advice for senior leaders to support decision making
- practise applying these skills to an issue.
Course format
The course combines facilitator-led, live learning sessions with self-led content that learners complete online at their own pace. Learners are encouraged to complete all the coursework and collaborate and learn from each other.
Each week of the two-week course consists of:
- a two-hour facilitator-led, live learning session
- approximately three hours of self-led learning and coursework.
There is a one-hour wrap up session to close the course.