Eightfold path (policy analysis)

The eightfold path is a method of policy analysis assembled by Eugene Bardach, a professor at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. It is outlined in his book A Practical Guide for Policy Analysis: The Eightfold Path to More Effective Problem Solving, which is now in its seventh edition. The book is commonly referenced in public policy and public administration scholarship.

This article is about the method of policy analysis. For the Buddhist doctrine, see Noble Eightfold Path.

Bardach's procedure is as follows:

  1. Define the problem
  2. Assemble the evidence
  3. Construct the alternatives
  4. Select the criteria
  5. Project the outcomes
  6. Confront the trade-offs
  7. Decide
  8. Tell your story

A possible ninth step, based on Bardach's own writing, might be "repeat steps 1–8 as necessary."

The method is named after the Buddhist Noble Eightfold Path, but otherwise has no relation to it.

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