Social welfare policy formulation and analysis: a model for South Africa

Abstract

Planning and policy practice throughout the world is complicated by a variety of factors amongst which is the lack of relevant models on which to base the policy process. The need for policy models that are practically useful, of an indigenous nature and sufficiently structured to enable analysis and replicable research to be undertaken is widely recognised. 

In this paper a rational approach to policy formulation is presented. Issues and problems affecting policy practice are outlined. Toe characteristics of different policy-making models and their relevance for South Africa are assessed. Societal, organisational and personal factors influencing planning and policy decisions and steps in the policy process are identified and discussed. The paper aims to contribute to the formulation of a model for policy formulation and analysis.

The widespread use of a common basis or niodel to inf otm planning and policy decisions could make an important contribution to the development of comparative social policy research and therefore also to the developrrient of the theory of social administration