Implementing Policy and Planning Development

Policy implementation does not always smoothly follow policy adoption. Effective policy implementation depends on the legitimacy a policy acquires during the formulation and adoption phases. An important dimension in understanding policy process in developing countries is the way policy implementation is approached. The old approach—the top—down approach, which was in vogue in the 1960s and before—was considered by its proponents as efficient, whereas its converse—bottom—up, popularized after the 1970s—was seen to be more effective. Development policy implementation needs to be closely monitored and carefully evaluated as an ongoing routine to assess the consequences and impact of policies on people, communities, and society. Policy evaluation, being a functional activity, can be both top—down and bottom—up. The several international aid and development agencies have their own models for policy impact assessments but may have common elements and criteria.