This slideshare shows an example of the UK policy-maker's experience as a systems map.

1. Constituency
MP
THE
CITIZEN
House of
Commons
House of Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
First, citizens elect
members of parliament
and the prime minister is
asked to form a
government
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Houses of Parliament
Action
Position

2. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(from a ministerial
department)
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
The Treasury
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
The judiciary
Houses of Parliament
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Responsible for all
department policy
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Action
Position
About
The government is made
up of the prime minister
and her ministers

3. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(from a ministerial
department)
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Make delegated
operational decisions
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Support
The judiciary
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Responsible for all
department policy
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Action
Position
About
The civil service works for
the government

4. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Public sector operations (non-civil service) e.g.
Police
NHS
Private and VCSE operations e.g.
Welfare
assessments
Grant writing
Outsourced
operational
delivery
Conduct
operations
within bounds
of legislation
Provide
policing and
healthcare
The media e.g.
Newspapers
Television
Social media
Reporting, columns,
letters, opinion,
debates, adverts,
public comments
Special interest groups and stakeholders e.g.
Agencies and public bodies e.g.
Non ministerial departments e.g.
Infrastructure
and Projects
Authority
Student Loans
Company
Office of the
Children’s
Commissioner
Oversee major
projects e.g.
HS2
Promote and
protect rights
of children
Provide loans
to students
Ofsted
Ofqual
Inspect and
regulate
services
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Think tanks Research and
represent
different
groupsTrade unions
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(from a ministerial
department)
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
Local government
Provides a local authority over local matters
Leader of the
council
Deputy leader
Councillor roles e.g.
Committee chairs
Managing director
or CEO
Executive directors
E.g. of finance, children’s
services, adult social
services, community and
environmental services
E.g. of adult social care, business and property,
children's services, communities, digital
innovation and efficiency, environment,
development and transport, policy and resources
Elected Public servants
Local govt. officials
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Make delegated
operational decisions
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Support
The judiciary
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Responsible for all
department policy
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Action
Position
About
But a whole range of
bodies deliver public
services and have
interests in government
decisions

5. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Public sector operations (non-civil service) e.g.
Police
NHS
Private and VCSE operations e.g.
Welfare
assessments
Grant writing
Outsourced
operational
delivery
Conduct
operations
within bounds
of legislation
Provide
policing and
healthcare
The media e.g.
Newspapers
Television
Social media
Reporting, columns,
letters, opinion,
debates, adverts,
public comments
Special interest groups and stakeholders e.g.
Agencies and public bodies e.g.
Non ministerial departments e.g.
Infrastructure
and Projects
Authority
Student Loans
Company
Office of the
Children’s
Commissioner
Oversee major
projects e.g.
HS2
Promote and
protect rights
of children
Provide loans
to students
Ofsted
Ofqual
Inspect and
regulate
services
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Think tanks Research and
represent
different
groupsTrade unions
“We
think...”
“This is
how we
can do it”
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(from a ministerial
department)
The Ministerial and
Special Advisors’ Code
Winning party manifesto
“We will... We will...”
Stated govt policy
“We have said” / briefing /
Q and A / core lines
The Civil Service Code.
Governs actions of civil servants.
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
Local government
Provides a local authority over local matters
Leader of the
council
Deputy leader
Councillor roles e.g.
Committee chairs
Managing director
or CEO
Executive directors
E.g. of finance, children’s
services, adult social
services, community and
environmental services
E.g. of adult social care, business and property,
children's services, communities, digital
innovation and efficiency, environment,
development and transport, policy and resources
Elected Public servants
Local govt. officials
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Operational guidance and
rules, Operational Policy
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Independent watchdogs,
regulators, commissioners,
inspectorates
Make delegated
operational decisions
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
“We believe in
collective
government view
- so clear things
with us!”
“What’s the
government’s
position on ...?”
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Support
The judiciary
“No, you don’t
have the authority
to make that
decision you
made!”
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Responsible for all
department policy
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Action
Position
About
Codes and
influences
Examples of some codes
and influences guiding
government decisions

6. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Public sector operations (non-civil service) e.g.
Police
NHS
Private and VCSE operations e.g.
Welfare
assessments
Grant writing
Outsourced
operational
delivery
Conduct
operations
within bounds
of legislation
Provide
policing and
healthcare
The media e.g.
Newspapers
Television
Social media
Reporting, columns,
letters, opinion,
debates, adverts,
public comments
Special interest groups and stakeholders e.g.
Agencies and public bodies e.g.
Non ministerial departments e.g.
Infrastructure
and Projects
Authority
Student Loans
Company
Office of the
Children’s
Commissioner
Oversee major
projects e.g.
HS2
Promote and
protect rights
of children
Provide loans
to students
Ofsted
Ofqual
Inspect and
regulate
services
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Giveviews
Think tanks Research and
represent
different
groupsTrade unions
“We
think...”
“This is
how we
can do it”
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(from a ministerial
department)
Updates core lines
Makes speeches
and provides
convening power
Makes policy
decisions based
on advice
Goes on visits
and conducts
meetings (advised
by policy official)
Negotiations with
treasury
Consults (among
others):
Lawyers
Finance
Analysts
Other relevant
departments
Press (media
handling)
Consultancies and
research agencies
Submission e.g.
Issue: How to ...
Recommendation:
Use approach x
Background: your
manifesto said
Consideration:
argument for
approach
Propriety
andethics
Propriety
andethics
The Ministerial and
Special Advisors’ Code
“Youcan...you
can’t
”
“Youcan...
youcan’t”
Responds to
cabinet
committee
clearances
Winning party manifesto
“We will... We will...”
Stated govt policy
“We have said” / briefing /
Q and A / core lines
Writes to MPs
Response from
minister
Visits surgeries
MPs write to the
minister
The Civil Service Code.
Governs actions of civil servants.
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)Form special
interest groups
Public/companies/
organisations
Submits freedom
of information
requests
Writes to govt
department.
Mostly dealt with
by an official
Special interest
groups write to
govt and MPs
G
ive
views
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
Local government
Provides a local authority over local matters
Leader of the
council
Deputy leader
Councillor roles e.g.
Committee chairs
Managing director
or CEO
Executive directors
E.g. of finance, children’s
services, adult social
services, community and
environmental services
E.g. of adult social care, business and property,
children's services, communities, digital
innovation and efficiency, environment,
development and transport, policy and resources
Elected Public servants
Local govt. officials
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Operational guidance and
rules, Operational Policy
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Independent watchdogs,
regulators, commissioners,
inspectorates
Holdtoaccount
Make delegated
operational decisions
E.g. granting entry to
the UK at the border
Hold
toaccount
“You
can... you can’t”
Give views
Give
view
s
Writes speeches
and briefings
Advises on
operational
policy
GREEN PAPER
Preliminary statement
of intent - to
stimulate debate
WHITE PAPER
Statement of intent /
proposed policy for
consultation. (Must
be cleared by
CabCom
Secondary
legislation and
rules e.g. statutory
instruments - laid
in the house
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Cabinet
Committee
clearance - often
given with
conditions
POLICY
AGREED!
Policy enacted
when
operationally
ready
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
“We believe in
collective
government view
- so clear things
with us!”
“What’s the
government’s
position on ...?”
Respond to
media queries
throughout
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Agrees
department’s
budget with the
chancellor
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
The Box
Daily decisions for
ministers. “The box
closes at 15:00”
Clears advice through SCS
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
And urgent
questions
if allowed by
speaker
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Parliament asks
questions to
minister
Written and oral -
PMQs
Advise ministers
Support
The judiciary
“No, you don’t
have the authority
to make that
decision you
made!”
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
NEW
POLICY
IDEA
Return for
secondary
legislation
Responsible for all
department policy
Signs statutory
instruments
Statutory
Instruments
(regulations)
Secretaries of
State can make
these under
powers given to
them by Acts of
Parliament
Writes an
impact
assessment
Impact
assessment
published
Minister takes
propsal to
parliament
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Primary legislation
e.g. Acts of
Parliament - given
royal assent by the
crown
Action
Position
About
Codes and
influences
Documentation
and processes
Common processes and
documentation

7. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Public sector operations (non-civil service) e.g.
Police
NHS
Private and VCSE operations e.g.
Welfare
assessments
Grant writing
Outsourced
operational
delivery
Conduct
operations
within bounds
of legislation
Provide
policing and
healthcare
The media e.g.
Newspapers
Television
Social media
Reporting, columns,
letters, opinion,
debates, adverts,
public comments
Special interest groups and stakeholders e.g.
Agencies and public bodies e.g.
Non ministerial departments e.g.
Infrastructure
and Projects
Authority
Student Loans
Company
Office of the
Children’s
Commissioner
Oversee major
projects e.g.
HS2
Promote and
protect rights
of children
Provide loans
to students
Ofsted
Ofqual
Inspect and
regulate
services
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Giveviews
Think tanks Research and
represent
different
groupsTrade unions
“We
think...”
“This is
how we
can do it”
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(from a ministerial
department)
Updates core lines
Makes speeches
and provides
convening power
Makes policy
decisions based
on advice
Goes on visits
and conducts
meetings (advised
by policy official)
Negotiations with
treasury
Consults (among
others):
Lawyers
Finance
Analysts
Other relevant
departments
Press (media
handling)
Consultancies and
research agencies
Submission e.g.
Issue: How to ...
Recommendation:
Use approach x
Background: your
manifesto said
Consideration:
argument for
approach
Propriety
andethics
Propriety
andethics
The Ministerial and
Special Advisors’ Code
“Youcan...you
can’t
”
“Youcan...
youcan’t”
Responds to
cabinet
committee
clearances
Winning party manifesto
“We will... We will...”
Stated govt policy
“We have said” / briefing /
Q and A / core lines
Writes to MPs
Response from
minister
Visits surgeries
MPs write to the
minister
Letter
received
The Civil Service Code.
Governs actions of civil servants.
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
to the response
Policy official
writes response
Letter sent
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)Form special
interest groups
Public/companies/
organisations
Submits freedom
of information
requests
Writes to govt
department.
Mostly dealt with
by an official
Special interest
groups write to
govt and MPs
G
ive
views
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
Local government
Provides a local authority over local matters
Leader of the
council
Deputy leader
Councillor roles e.g.
Committee chairs
Managing director
or CEO
Executive directors
E.g. of finance, children’s
services, adult social
services, community and
environmental services
E.g. of adult social care, business and property,
children's services, communities, digital
innovation and efficiency, environment,
development and transport, policy and resources
Elected Public servants
Local govt. officials
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Question Deadline
Policy official
writes response
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
Minister submits
or presents
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Operational guidance and
rules, Operational Policy
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Independent watchdogs,
regulators, commissioners,
inspectorates
Holdtoaccount
Make delegated
operational decisions
E.g. granting entry to
the UK at the border
Hold
toaccount
“You
can... you can’t”
Give views
Give
view
s
Writes speeches
and briefings
Advises on
operational
policy
GREEN PAPER
Preliminary statement
of intent - to
stimulate debate
WHITE PAPER
Statement of intent /
proposed policy for
consultation. (Must
be cleared by
CabCom
Secondary
legislation and
rules e.g. statutory
instruments - laid
in the house
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Cabinet
Committee
clearance - often
given with
conditions
POLICY
AGREED!
Policy enacted
when
operationally
ready
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
“We believe in
collective
government view
- so clear things
with us!”
“What’s the
government’s
position on ...?”
Respond to
media queries
throughout
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Agrees
department’s
budget with the
chancellor
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
The Box
Daily decisions for
ministers. “The box
closes at 15:00”
Clears advice through SCS
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
And urgent
questions
if allowed by
speaker
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Parliament asks
questions to
minister
Written and oral -
PMQs
Advise ministers
Support
The judiciary
“No, you don’t
have the authority
to make that
decision you
made!”
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
NEW
POLICY
IDEA
Return for
secondary
legislation
Responsible for all
department policy
Signs statutory
instruments
Statutory
Instruments
(regulations)
Secretaries of
State can make
these under
powers given to
them by Acts of
Parliament
Writes an
impact
assessment
Impact
assessment
published
Minister takes
propsal to
parliament
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Primary legislation
e.g. Acts of
Parliament - given
royal assent by the
crown
Action
Citizen
interaction
Position
About
Codes and
influences
Documentation
and processes
Full map

8. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Public sector operations (non-civil service) e.g.
Police
NHS
Private and VCSE operations e.g.
Welfare
assessments
Grant writing
Outsourced
operational
delivery
Conduct
operations
within bounds
of legislation
Provide
policing and
healthcare
The media e.g.
Newspapers
Television
Social media
Reporting, columns,
letters, opinion,
debates, adverts,
public comments
Special interest groups and stakeholders e.g.
Agencies and public bodies e.g.
Non ministerial departments e.g.
Infrastructure
and Projects
Authority
Student Loans
Company
Office of the
Children’s
Commissioner
Oversee major
projects e.g.
HS2
Promote and
protect rights
of children
Provide loans
to students
Ofsted
Ofqual
Inspect and
regulate
services
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Giveviews
Think tanks Research and
represent
different
groupsTrade unions
“We
think...”
“This is
how we
can do it”
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(from a ministerial
department)
Updates core lines
Makes speeches
and provides
convening power
Makes policy
decisions based
on advice
Goes on visits
and conducts
meetings (advised
by policy official)
Negotiations with
treasury
Consults (among
others):
Lawyers
Finance
Analysts
Other relevant
departments
Press (media
handling)
Consultancies and
research agencies
Submission e.g.
Issue: How to ...
Recommendation:
Use approach x
Background: your
manifesto said
Consideration:
argument for
approach
Propriety
andethics
Propriety
andethics
The Ministerial and
Special Advisors’ Code
“Youcan...you
can’t
”
“Youcan...
youcan’t”
Responds to
cabinet
committee
clearances
Winning party manifesto
“We will... We will...”
Stated govt policy
“We have said” / briefing /
Q and A / core lines
Writes to MPs
Response from
minister
Visits surgeries
MPs write to the
minister
Letter
received
The Civil Service Code.
Governs actions of civil servants.
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
to the response
Policy official
writes response
Letter sent
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)Form special
interest groups
Public/companies/
organisations
Submits freedom
of information
requests
Writes to govt
department.
Mostly dealt with
by an official
Special interest
groups write to
govt and MPs
G
ive
views
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
Local government
Provides a local authority over local matters
Leader of the
council
Deputy leader
Councillor roles e.g.
Committee chairs
Managing director
or CEO
Executive directors
E.g. of finance, children’s
services, adult social
services, community and
environmental services
E.g. of adult social care, business and property,
children's services, communities, digital
innovation and efficiency, environment,
development and transport, policy and resources
Elected Public servants
Local govt. officials
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Question Deadline
Policy official
writes response
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
Minister submits
or presents
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Operational guidance and
rules, Operational Policy
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Independent watchdogs,
regulators, commissioners,
inspectorates
Holdtoaccount
Make delegated
operational decisions
E.g. granting entry to
the UK at the border
Hold
toaccount
“You
can... you can’t”
Give views
Give
view
s
Writes speeches
and briefings
Advises on
operational
policy
GREEN PAPER
Preliminary statement
of intent - to
stimulate debate
WHITE PAPER
Statement of intent /
proposed policy for
consultation. (Must
be cleared by
CabCom
Secondary
legislation and
rules e.g. statutory
instruments - laid
in the house
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Cabinet
Committee
clearance - often
given with
conditions
POLICY
AGREED!
Policy enacted
when
operationally
ready
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
“We believe in
collective
government view
- so clear things
with us!”
“What’s the
government’s
position on ...?”
Respond to
media queries
throughout
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Agrees
department’s
budget with the
chancellor
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
The Box
Daily decisions for
ministers. “The box
closes at 15:00”
Clears advice through SCS
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
And urgent
questions
if allowed by
speaker
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Parliament asks
questions to
minister
Written and oral -
PMQs
Advise ministers
Support
The judiciary
“No, you don’t
have the authority
to make that
decision you
made!”
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
NEW
POLICY
IDEA
Return for
secondary
legislation
Responsible for all
department policy
Signs statutory
instruments
Statutory
Instruments
(regulations)
Secretaries of
State can make
these under
powers given to
them by Acts of
Parliament
Writes an
impact
assessment
Impact
assessment
published
Minister takes
propsal to
parliament
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Primary legislation
e.g. Acts of
Parliament - given
royal assent by the
crown
Action
Citizen
interaction
Position
About
Codes and
influences
Documentation
and processes
What happens when I write
to an MP?

9. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Public sector operations (non-civil service) e.g.
Police
NHS
Private and VCSE operations e.g.
Welfare
assessments
Grant writing
Outsourced
operational
delivery
Conduct
operations
within bounds
of legislation
Provide
policing and
healthcare
The media e.g.
Newspapers
Television
Social media
Reporting, columns,
letters, opinion,
debates, adverts,
public comments
Special interest groups and stakeholders e.g.
Agencies and public bodies e.g.
Non ministerial departments e.g.
Infrastructure
and Projects
Authority
Student Loans
Company
Office of the
Children’s
Commissioner
Oversee major
projects e.g.
HS2
Promote and
protect rights
of children
Provide loans
to students
Ofsted
Ofqual
Inspect and
regulate
services
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Giveviews
Think tanks Research and
represent
different
groupsTrade unions
“We
think...”
“This is
how we
can do it”
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
THE
CITIZEN
THE GOVT
MINISTER
(From a ministerial
department)
Updates core lines
Makes speeches
and provides
convening power
Makes policy
decisions based
on advice
Goes on visits
and conducts
meetings (advised
by policy official)
Negotiations with
treasury
Consults (among
others):
Submission e.g.
Issue: How to ...
Recommendation:
Use approach x
Background: your
manifesto said
Consideration:
argument for
approach
Propriety
andethics
Propriety
andethics
The Ministerial and
Special Advisors’ Code
“Youcan...youcan’t”
“Youcan...
youcan’t”
Winning party manifesto
“We will... We will...”
Stated govt policy
“We have said” / briefing /
Q and A / core lines
Writes to MPs
Response from
minister
Visits surgeries
MPs write to the
minister
Letter
received
The Civil Service Code.
Governs actions of civil servants.
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
to the response
Policy official
writes response
Letter sent
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)Form special
interest groups
Public/companies/
organisations
Submits freedom
of information
requests
Writes to govt
department.
Mostly dealt with
by an official
Special interest
groups write to
govt and MPs
G
ive
views
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
Local government
Provides a local authority over local matters
Leader of the
council
Deputy leader
Councillor roles e.g.
Committee chairs
Managing director
or CEO
Executive directors
E.g. of finance, children’s
services, adult social
services, community and
environmental services
E.g. of adult social care, business and property,
children's services, communities, digital
innovation and efficiency, environment,
development and transport, policy and resources
Elected Public servants
Local govt. officials
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
START
HERE
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Question Deadline
Policy official
writes response
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
Minister submits
or presents
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Operational guidance and
rules, Operational Policy
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Independent watchdogs,
regulators, commissioners,
inspectorates
Holdtoaccount
Make delegated
operational decisions
E.g. granting entry to
the UK at the border
Hold
toaccount
“You
can... you can’t”
Give views
Give
v
iew
sGREEN PAPER
Preliminary statement
of intent - to
stimulate debate
WHITE PAPER
Statement of intent /
proposed policy for
consultation. (Must
be cleared by
CabCom
Secondary
legislation and
rules e.g. statutory
instruments - laid
in the house
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Cabinet
Committee
clearance - often
given with
conditions
POLICY
AGREED!
Policy enacted
when
operationally
ready
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
“We believe in
collective
government view
- so clear things
with us!”
“What’s the
government’s
position on ...?”
Respond to
media queries
throughout
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Agrees
department’s
budget with the
chancellor
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
The Box
Daily decisions for
ministers. “The box
closes at 15:00”
Clears advice through SCS
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
PM
Govt.
Ministers
Opposition
Govt.
Ministers
And urgent
questions
if allowed by
speaker
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Parliament asks
questions to
minister
Written and oral -
PMQs
Advise ministers
Support
The judiciary
“No, you don’t
have the authority
to make that
decision you
made!”
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
NEW
POLICY
IDEA
Return for
secondary
legislation
Responsible for all
department policy
Signs statutory
instruments
Statutory
Instruments
(regulations)
Secretaries of
State can make
these under
powers given to
them by Acts of
Parliament
Writes an
impact
assessment
Impact
assessment
published
Minister takes
propsal to
parliament
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Primary legislation
e.g. Acts of
Parliament - given
royal assent by the
crown
Action
Citizen
interaction
Position
About
Codes and
influences
Documentation
and processes
What does a policy maker
balance in an average day?
Debates
Giveviews
Lawyers
Finance
Analysts
Other relevant
government
departments
Press (media
handling)
Consultation and
research
agencies
Legal implications
of policy
Costing of policy
Data and evidence
Implications for
existing policy
Press releases,
embargos
Research and
evidence, impact
measurement

10. EXECUTIVE LEGISLATURE
JUDICIARY
Separation
of powers
Public sector operations (non-civil service) e.g.
Police
NHS
Private and VCSE operations e.g.
Welfare
assessments
Grant writing
Outsourced
operational
delivery
Conduct
operations
within bounds
of legislation
Provide
policing and
healthcare
The media e.g.
Newspapers
Television
Social media
Reporting, columns,
letters, opinion,
debates, adverts,
public comments
Special interest groups and stakeholders e.g.
Agencies and public bodies e.g.
Non ministerial departments e.g.
Infrastructure
and Projects
Authority
Student Loans
Company
Office of the
Children’s
Commissioner
Oversee major
projects e.g.
HS2
Promote and
protect rights
of children
Provide loans
to students
Ofsted
Ofqual
Inspect and
regulate
services
Constituency
MP
Ministerial department e.g.
Department for Education
Under-Secretary
of State
Secretary of
State (SoS)
Lord’s Minister
Minister of State
Private
Office
Giveviews
Think tanks Research and
represent
different
groupsTrade unions
“We
think...”
“This is
how we
can do it”
Holds a policy
brief, also
represents the
department in
the House of
Lords
Often responsible
for department’s
most important
brief
Updates core lines
Makes speeches
and provides
convening power
Makes policy
decisions based
on advice
Goes on visits
and conducts
meetings (advised
by policy official)
Submission e.g.
Issue: How to ...
Recommendation:
Use approach x
Background: your
manifesto said
Consideration:
argument for
approach
The Ministerial and
Special Advisors’ Code
Responds to
cabinet
committee
clearances
Winning party manifesto
“We will... We will...”
Stated govt policy
“We have said” / briefing /
Q and A / core lines
MPs write to the
minister
Letter
received
The Civil Service Code.
Governs actions of civil servants.
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
to the response
Policy official
writes response
Letter sent
THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)Form special
interest groups
Public/companies/
organisations
Submits freedom
of information
requests
Writes to govt
department.
Mostly dealt with
by an official
Special interest
groups write to
govt and MPs
G
ive
views
House of
Commons
House of Lords
The Cabinet
(The government)
Local government
Provides a local authority over local matters
Leader of the
council
Deputy leader
Councillor roles e.g.
Committee chairs
Managing director
or CEO
Executive directors
E.g. of finance, children’s
services, adult social
services, community and
environmental services
E.g. of adult social care, business and property,
children's services, communities, digital
innovation and efficiency, environment,
development and transport, policy and resources
Elected Public servants
Local govt. officials
~21 MPs and Lords
THE CROWN
Elects MPs
when the Crown,
requested by PM,
dissolves old
Parliament
Selects his/her
ministers
THE PRIME
MINISTER
Question Deadline
Policy official
writes response
Find appropriate
department/unit
Minister
changes/agrees
Minister submits
or presents
Civil Service
Policy Unit
Senior Civil
Service
The Treasury The Press
Office
SPECIAL
ADVISORS (SpAds)
SECRETARY OF
STATE (SoS)
CIVIL SERVICE
OPERATIONAL
TEAMS e.g.
Help. Define.
Challenge.
Operational guidance and
rules, Operational Policy
Work and Pensions Immigration Prisons
Independent watchdogs,
regulators, commissioners,
inspectorates
Make delegated
operational decisions
E.g. granting entry to
the UK at the border
Writes speeches
and briefings
Advises on
operational
policy
GREEN PAPER
Preliminary statement
of intent - to
stimulate debate
WHITE PAPER
Statement of intent /
proposed policy for
consultation. (Must
be cleared by
CabCom
Secondary
legislation and
rules e.g. statutory
instruments - laid
in the house
Cabinet
Committee -
smaller groups of
cabinet ministers
Cabinet
Committee
clearance - often
given with
conditions
POLICY
AGREED!
Policy enacted
when
operationally
ready
Lawyers and
parliamentary
counsel
(TSoC) (GLS)
Civil Servants
Can independently review policy
and operational decisions,
ensuring they are in line with
laws passed by parliament
“We believe in
collective
government view
- so clear things
with us!”
“What’s the
government’s
position on ...?”
Respond to
media queries
throughout
Temporary civil
servants, appointed
by Secretary of State
Civil servants who
work for ministers
Permanent Secretary
Director General
Director
Deputy Director
Deputy Director
Grade 6
Grade 7
SEO HEO EO AO
The Chancellor
The Chief Secretary
of the Treasury
Treasury Officials
Responsible for
other policy
briefs
Ministers work
for Prime
Minister and
define policy
need
The Box
Daily decisions for
ministers. “The box
closes at 15:00”
Clears advice through SCS
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
The Civil Service
• Delivers policy intent of ministers
• Delivers government services
• ‘Advises’ and ‘warns’ Some important structures within the Civil Service
Govt.
Ministers
And urgent
questions
if allowed by
speaker
Invites leader of
largest party in
Parliament to
form a new
government
Parliament asks
questions to
minister
Written and oral -
PMQs
Advise ministers
Support
The judiciary
“No, you don’t
have the authority
to make that
decision you
made!”
Houses of Parliament
POLICY TEAM
Research,
analyse, evidence,
measures impact,
and advise
NEW
POLICY
IDEA
Return for
secondary
legislation
Responsible for all
department policy
Signs statutory
instruments
Statutory
Instruments
(regulations)
Secretaries of
State can make
these under
powers given to
them by Acts of
Parliament
Writes an
impact
assessment
Impact
assessment
published
Minister takes
propsal to
parliament
Welsh
Assembly
Scottish
Parliament
UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN
AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Regional NI
Assembly
Some Secretaries of
State have
responsibility for
reserved or
devolved matters
Devolved matters
fall to:
Otherwise, most of Policy
Lab work is England only
Primary legislation
e.g. Acts of
Parliament - given
royal assent by the
crown
Action
Citizen
interaction
Position
About
Codes and
influences
Documentation
and processes
12 stages of policy making
Problem definition
What is the impact of
the problem?
How does the
problem manifest?
What is the cause of
the problem?
What might the role
for policy be?
A clear
ministerial steer
Commitments
from the
governing party’s
manifesto
Public
statements of
government
policy
Teams like
Policy Lab
Made easier by:
Evaluate
How do we know
what has worked?
How can the policy be
changed?
Internal
evaluation and
analysis teams
External bodies Reports and
research
Parliament
‘Sunset clauses’
Which require am
evaluation after a
number of years.
Parliamentary
scrutiny
Supported by:
Agree through
structures
A number of
structures and
processes exist to
ensure that:
The government
speaks
consistently
about the issue
Quality is
maintained
throughout
All government
departments
have the
opportunity to
have their say
(collective
cabinet
government)
The full range of
implications
have been
considered
Build an action plan
Ensure that policies
can be implemented
by building a plan
collaboratively with
operational teams - or
other delivery
partners.
Action plan
To consider when
changes will be made,
how they will be
made, and how much
they will cost.
Advise ministers/
recommend
Policy submissions
and meetings with
ministers to provide
policy advice to
ministers and seek
their feedback and
direction.
Submission
A concise way of
summarising evidence
and providing a
recommendation.
Estimate impact
Analyse and publish
the potential to
successfully address
the problem.
Impact Assessment
• Impact of the policy
on the affected
population and the
broader public
• The cost of the
policy
• The implications for
operational civil
servants, public sector
operations, private
and VCSE operations
Draw in expertise
What implications
might there be that
require specific
expertise?
Finance
colleagues
Implications for
the department’s
budget
Lawyers Legal issues or
implications
Devolution or
constitutional
teams
Press office and
communications
Handling plans
Balance within
government
Does the approach
complement/conflict
with other
departments’
policies? Are there
financial trade-offs?
How do we ensure the
end user does not get
mixed messages from
a service? Are there
consequences that
might matter more to
another government
departments?
Engage with
colleagues in
their department
and others
Access a ‘single
point of contact’
within
department for
certain issues
Raise issues
through
senior-level or
inter-ministerial
meetings
Policy teams
can:
Frame problem
Demonstrating how
the problem is
caused; how severe
the problem is; how
prevalent the problem
is; who is affected by
the problem.
Communications
colleagues
Press offices
Think tanks
Research bodies
Supported by:
The problem can be
framed in different
ways by:
The media
Other political
actors
Research and
analyse options
Options appraisal
using existing
literature;
commissioned
research - what
evidence is missing?
Analysts and
economists
Researchers
Specialist
research teams
e.g. user research
Research
centres e.g. GO
science
Supported by:
Respond
Deal with ad hoc
requests e.g. topical
issues, commenting
on other government
department/internal
policies,
correspondence and
press queries.
Press office
Private office
Correspondence
units
Visits and events
teams
Supported
by:
External consultation
What do different
groups, individual
partners and
individuals think?
Co-design
approaches
Immersive
research
Working groups,
boards, regular
meetings
Specialist
government
teams (e.g. the
Business
Partnership
Teams)
The public Experts Local
government
Operational
agencies
Analysts
Consultants
Research
agencies
Think tanks
Trade unions
Special interest
groups
Those consulted
include:
Made easier by:

11. THE POLICY
OFFICIAL
(from a
policy unit)
Mapping the policy making process
We welcome feedback on the prototype!
“How can we understand the policy
maker (our user)’s journey, in order to
design Policy Lab tools better?”
Action
Citizen
interaction
Position
About
Codes and
influences
Documentation
and processes
12 stages of policy making
Problem definition
What is the impact of
the problem?
How does the
problem manifest?
What is the cause of
the problem?
What might the role
for policy be?
A clear
ministerial steer
Commitments
from the
governing party’s
manifesto
Public
statements of
government
policy
Teams like
Policy Lab
Made easier by:
Evaluate
How do we know
what has worked?
How can the policy be
changed?
Internal
evaluation and
analysis teams
External bodies Reports and
research
Parliament
‘Sunset clauses’
Which require am
evaluation after a
number of years.
Parliamentary
scrutiny
Supported by:
Agree through
structures
A number of
structures and
processes exist to
ensure that:
The government
speaks
consistently
about the issue
Quality is
maintained
throughout
All government
departments
have the
opportunity to
have their say
(collective
cabinet
government)
The full range of
implications
have been
considered
Build an action plan
Ensure that policies
can be implemented
by building a plan
collaboratively with
operational teams - or
other delivery
partners.
Action plan
To consider when
changes will be made,
how they will be
made, and how much
they will cost.
Advise ministers/
recommend
Policy submissions
and meetings with
ministers to provide
policy advice to
ministers and seek
their feedback and
direction.
Submission
A concise way of
summarising evidence
and providing a
recommendation.
Estimate impact
Analyse and publish
the potential to
successfully address
the problem.
Impact Assessment
• Impact of the policy
on the affected
population and the
broader public
• The cost of the
policy
• The implications for
operational civil
servants, public sector
operations, private
and VCSE operations
Draw in expertise
What implications
might there be that
require specific
expertise?
Finance
colleagues
Implications for
the department’s
budget
Lawyers Legal issues or
implications
Devolution or
constitutional
teams
Press office and
communications
Handling plans
Balance within
government
Does the approach
complement/conflict
with other
departments’
policies? Are there
financial trade-offs?
How do we ensure the
end user does not get
mixed messages from
a service? Are there
consequences that
might matter more to
another government
departments?
Engage with
colleagues in
their department
and others
Access a ‘single
point of contact’
within
department for
certain issues
Raise issues
through
senior-level or
inter-ministerial
meetings
Policy teams
can:
Frame problem
Demonstrating how
the problem is
caused; how severe
the problem is; how
prevalent the problem
is; who is affected by
the problem.
Communications
colleagues
Press offices
Think tanks
Research bodies
Supported by:
The problem can be
framed in different
ways by:
The media
Other political
actors
Research and
analyse options
Options appraisal
using existing
literature;
commissioned
research - what
evidence is missing?
Analysts and
economists
Researchers
Specialist
research teams
e.g. user research
Research
centres e.g. GO
science
Supported by:
Respond
Deal with ad hoc
requests e.g. topical
issues, commenting
on other government
department/internal
policies,
correspondence and
press queries.
Press office
Private office
Correspondence
units
Visits and events
teams
Supported
by:
External consultation
What do different
groups, individual
partners and
individuals think?
Co-design
approaches
Immersive
research
Working groups,
boards, regular
meetings
Specialist
government
teams (e.g. the
Business
Partnership
Teams)
The public Experts Local
government
Operational
agencies
Analysts
Consultants
Research
agencies
Think tanks
Trade unions
Special interest
groups
Those consulted
include:
Made easier by: