5.2 DIAGNOSING AND DEFINING THE PROBLEM (DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS)
Diagnosing and defining the problem is a crucial step in the policy analysis process. It involves identifying the specific issue or challenge that requires policy attention and understanding its underlying causes and implications. Data collection and analysis play a vital role in this process.
Steps involved in diagnosing and defining the problem through data collection and analysis:
- Identify the problem
- Review existing data and information
- Determine data needs
- Data collection
- Data organization and preparation
- Data analysis
- Interpretation of findings
- Synthesis and problem definition
- Validation and feedback
- Documentation and reporting