Variables that Influence the Policy making Process

Review how the concept of policy is defined within the field of public administration and the role that public administrators play in the policymaking process.

• How do politics influence decisions that are made which eventually culminate in a policy?
• Is the target population (that which has a defined problem or set of needs) a key player in the policy process?
• How does a public administrator balance the needs of the public with the pressure of political constituents?

Accountability of government officials to the public within this context is a vital aspect of public administrative practice.

• Identify at least one way in which public officials can be held accountable to the public that you believe would be particularly effective.

Respond using the lessons and vocabulary found in the readings, such as: Public Administration, Policy-Making Goals, Equity, Efficiency, Security, Liberty, as well as any information retrieved from outside sources such as journal articles in the SUO Library. Support your answers with examples and research, and cite your research using correct APA format.