Includes bibliographical references and index. Bardach, E., & Patashnik, E. M. (2016). A practical guide for policy analysis : The eightfold path to more effective problem solving. Los Angeles : CQ Press.

Part I: The eightfold path -- Step one: Define the problem -- Step two: Assemble some evidence -- Step three: Construct the alternatives -- Step four: Select the criteria -- Step five: Project the outcomes -- Step six: Confront the trade-offs -- Step seven: Stop, focus, narrow, deepen, decide! -- Step eight: tell your story -- Part II: Assembling evidence -- Getting started -- Locating relevant sources -- Gaining access and engaging assistance -- Conducting a policy research interview -- Using language to characterize and calibrate -- Protecting credibility -- Strategic dilemmas of policy research -- Part III: Handling a design problem -- It's a production system -- Crosswalks to the eightfold path -- Define the problem - focus on a primary outcome -- Construct the alternatives - configure the system's organizational structure and its operating processes -- Select the criteria - define the objectives to be achieved -- Project the outcomes - test whether it will work -- Confront the trade-offs - examine the system from multiple perspectives -- Design a transition strategy -- Part IV: "Smart (best) practices" research: understanding and making use of what look like good ideas from somewhere else -- Develop realistic expectations -- Analyze smart practices -- Observe the practice -- Describe the generic vulnerabilities -- But will it work here? -- Back to the eightfold path

This bestselling handbook presents dozens of concrete tips, interesting case studies, and step-by-step strategies that are easily applicable for the budding analyst as well as the seasoned professional.