Setting a policy design evaluation framework: Indigent Policy

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to propose a policy design evaluation framework. The methodology is based on a conceptual analysis and is supported by a qualitative research design in which Indigent Policy design serves as the unit of analysis. An Indigent Policy design framework, should comprise the following critical phases: agenda setting; policy formulation and adoption; policy implementation; and policy evaluation, feedback and review. The study revealed that policy design is the process of finding some form of intervention to confront a problem. Municipalities need to develop and adopt indigent policies to ensure that the indigent population can have access to the package of services included in the government’s free basic services programme. It was also found that without sufficient capacity, implementers of the Indigent Policy will not be able to render quality service delivery. Moreover, fundamental human values must be sought through the policy design processes, particularly when targeting the benefits of the policy. A municipality’s Indigent Policy must further be integrated with the political and economic environment and other relevant policies of the municipality. Strong stakeholder and role-player involvement and regular monitoring and evaluation of results are critical elements for effective Indigent Policy design. The main weakness of the proposed framework is that it only focused on policy design and content evaluation while neglecting policy implementation and impact evaluation. This shortcoming can be mitigated through empirical research. Suggestions for further research are therefore included.