Publication

Phase 3: Checklist for design with best advice and the three-pillar framework

Data and evidence

does the proposed intervention align with the most robust available data?
does the evaluation of the initiative require ongoing data collection?
is the policy objective clearly stated and specific enough based on the data and evidence assessed?
have stakeholders, including delivery teams and agencies, contributed to data and evidence?

does the intervention have a clear logic model that outlines how the proposed activities will lead to the desired final objectives?
have the relevant delivery teams and agencies contributed to the assessment of options? Have they accepted the selected option and are responsible parties identified for each delivery activity?
have the risks associated with policy options been identified and provisional solutions mapped?
has a sensitivity analysis and scenario analysis been completed against each of the key risks?
are proposals feasible (including assessing estimated costs and resources required)?
is there an alternative (including a “do nothing”) policy scenario to consider? – assess each option against each other under various considerations
have the consequences for other areas of government policy been identified and set out?

have stakeholders been consulted in a substantive manner?
has the policy been discussed with the relevant Oireachtas Committees and their views sought?
does the policy align with the existing legal framework?
will the policy effectively address people’s aims and potential objections? If objections arise, have you identified strategies you could employ to mitigate them?
does the policy fit within the government’s wider mandate?
who are the stakeholders and veto players on whom the policy depends for approval and implementation?