THE ANALYSIS OF DESIGN OR THE DESIGN OF ANALYSIS?

The policy sciences have advanced in the past by introspection, and there appears to be a need for a return to such self-conscious examination of the field of inquiry. A design orientation offers a useful framework for such an examination. It requires reconsideration of some of the fundamental premises of policy inquiry. This article explores what impact design might have on the conventional process framework and then proceeds to discuss the development of a design perspective.     

EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF CONSUMER PROTECTION REGULATIONS: THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION EXPERIENCE

Evaluation of consumer protection regulations promulgated by the Federal Trade Commission is a formal, ongoing activity employing a wide variety of commonly accepted research designs. This paper describes the variety of evaluation designs and gives examples of the application of these designs in assessing the impact of FTC Trade Rules in the marketplace. The authors also consider the future of consumer protection evaluation in an environment of severe budget constraints.     

INTERVENOR FUNDING AT THE FTC: BIOPSY OR AUTOPSY?

Intervenor funding, an innovative method for encouraging public participation in government rule-making, is examined by focusing on the experience of the Federal Trade Commission. The paper reviews the program's goals, the arguments of critics, and the perceptions of individuals and groups who applied for intervenor funding. The program's effects on both agency decision-making and on the applicants themselves are evaluated.     

MANAGING AUSTRALIA'S POLICE: THE CHALLENGE TO IDENTIFY WHO SHOULD BE IN CHARGE—POLITICIANS OR POLICE?

Abstract: The management of police by government in Australia is a controversial but neglected topic, with little research or theoretical work having been undertaken. What is clear from the limited information available is that governments tend to adopt an arms-length policy and allow police to act with a greater degree of independence than they do with many other government agencies. What underpins this approach is the traditional British model for managing police. This model is considered in this paper, along with other matters such as local police statutes, discretion, statutory authority status and accountability. These aspects of the arms-length approach are discussed in the light of current policy-making and accountability systems. Consideration is also given to the question of whether this approach by government is still appropriate.