What are the best sources of evidence for policy problem definition?

1 Scientific evidence

Scientific evidence refers to the empirical data and findings that are derived from systematic and rigorous research methods, such as experiments, surveys, or meta-analyses. Scientific evidence can provide factual and objective information about the nature, causes, and consequences of a policy problem, as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of potential solutions. However, scientific evidence is not always available, reliable, or relevant for every policy problem, and it may also be subject to interpretation, bias, or uncertainty. Therefore, you should always critically assess the quality, validity, and applicability of the scientific evidence you use, and acknowledge its limitations and assumptions.

2 Stakeholder evidence

Stakeholder evidence refers to the opinions, experiences, and preferences of the individuals or groups that are affected by or involved in a policy problem, such as citizens, beneficiaries, practitioners, or experts. Stakeholder evidence can provide valuable insights into the needs, expectations, and values of the policy target population, as well as the challenges, opportunities, and trade-offs of the policy intervention. However, stakeholder evidence is not always representative, consistent, or transparent for every policy problem, and it may also be influenced by self-interest, power, or ideology. Therefore, you should always carefully select, balance, and verify the stakeholder evidence you use, and respect its diversity and legitimacy.

3 Comparative evidence

Comparative evidence refers to the information and lessons that are derived from the analysis of similar or related policy problems or solutions in different contexts, such as countries, regions, or sectors. Comparative evidence can provide useful benchmarks, models, and best practices for policy problem definition, as well as the identification and evaluation of policy alternatives. However, comparative evidence is not always comprehensive, accurate, or transferable for every policy problem, and it may also be affected by contextual factors, such as culture, history, or institutions. Therefore, you should always cautiously adapt, contextualize, and update the comparative evidence you use, and recognize its variability and contingency.

4 Normative evidence

Normative evidence refers to the principles and values that are derived from the ethical, legal, or political frameworks that guide and constrain policy problem definition, such as human rights, constitutional norms, or democratic ideals. Normative evidence can provide important criteria, standards, and objectives for policy problem definition, as well as the justification and legitimacy of policy intervention. However, normative evidence is not always clear, consistent, or agreed upon for every policy problem, and it may also be challenged by competing or conflicting values or interests. Therefore, you should always clearly articulate, justify, and defend the normative evidence you use, and acknowledge its implications and trade-offs.

5 Analytical evidence

Analytical evidence refers to the arguments and logic that are derived from the systematic and rigorous application of analytical tools and techniques to policy problem definition, such as problem structuring methods, causal diagrams, or decision analysis. Analytical evidence can provide coherent and comprehensive frameworks, models, and scenarios for policy problem definition, as well as the clarification and evaluation of policy assumptions and options. However, analytical evidence is not always feasible, robust, or relevant for every policy problem, and it may also be dependent on data availability, quality, and reliability. Therefore, you should always carefully choose, apply, and test the analytical evidence you use, and disclose its methods and parameters.