Introducing the Policy Design Matrix
The Policy Design Matrix helps policymakers categorise policy options based on two crucial dimensions: the implementation timeline and the implementation mechanism.
The Vertical Axis - Implementation timeline
The Immediate half of the Matrix represents interventions that provide quick outcomes, addressing urgent needs or emergencies.
The Gradual half of the Matrix represents those that provide results over a longer timeline, often involving more comprehensive planning and sustained efforts.
Neither is good or bad, but they can be right or wrong when we consider context. For example, interventions with a gradual impact would likely be inadequate to solve an urgent policy problem like an unforeseen flooding event.
The Horizontal Axis - Implementation mechanism
The Direct half of the Matrix represents interventions that are implemented directly by the government, such as new regulations or public services.
The Indirect half represents those where the government influences other entities to act, perhaps by providing incentives for behaviour change or funding innovation efforts.
The four quadrants of the Policy Design Matrix
Combining the two dimensions of time and implementation mechanism creates four distinct quadrants, each containing four distinct Policy Levers.
Immediate and Direct
Policy Levers in this quadrant are suitable for scenarios requiring swift, decisive action by the government. This quadrant is crucial for handling crises or urgent public needs where quick government intervention is necessary.
Policy Levers in this quadrant and example uses:
Legislate - Enacting a new law to ban smoking in public places to reduce health risks.
Sanction - Imposing fines on companies violating environmental regulations.
Mobilise - Deploying emergency services to handle a natural disaster.
Engage - Conducting immediate public consultations for urgent policy decisions.
Immediate and Indirect
Levers in this quadrant are useful for quickly influencing public behaviour or perceptions without direct mandates. This quadrant is effective for situations where the government needs to alter public behaviour rapidly but prefers not to impose direct control.
Policy Levers in this quadrant and example uses:
Influence - Running a public health campaign to promote vaccination.
Subsidise - Offering subsidies for electric vehicle purchases to reduce carbon emissions.
Nudge - Implementing default options for pension enrollments to increase savings rates.
Tax - Raising or lowering levies on goods, services, or income to influence behaviour.
Gradual and Direct
Best for initiatives requiring long-term commitment and direct government intervention. Policy Levers in this quadrant typically involve significant planning and resources but aim for sustainable, long-term outcomes.
Policy Levers in this quadrant and example uses:
Regulate - Developing regulations for sustainable building practices.
Innovate - Funding research for renewable energy technologies.
Decentralise - Delegating education policy decisions to local governments for tailored solutions.
Transfer - Transferring ownership or management of public services to private entities (privatisation) or returning them to central government ownership (nationalisation).
Gradual and Indirect
Ideal for influencing societal norms and behaviours over time through indirect means. This quadrant focuses on fostering gradual change through ongoing efforts and partnerships rather than immediate interventions.
Policy Levers in this quadrant and example uses:
Research - Conducting longitudinal studies on the impact of education reforms.
Educate - Initiating a nationwide anti-smoking campaign in schools.
Monitor - Setting up long-term air quality monitoring programs.
Collaborate - Partnering with organisations and communities.
We will be looking at each of these Policy Levers in depth in future blog posts.
We use Policy Lever cards in our Portfolio Review sessions
Policy lever
A ‘Policy Lever’ is a tool that policymakers can use to influence outcomes in specific areas. Levers can take various forms, such as regulations, incentives, public awareness campaigns, partnerships, or direct interventions. They are the actionable components of a policy strategy, designed to bring about desired changes or address particular issues.
A powerful tool for policy teams
The Policy Design Matrix is a powerful tool for policymakers, enabling them to categorise and select Policy Levers based on the urgency of impact and the method of implementation.
By applying this structured approach, policymakers can ensure that their policies are effectively matched to the specific challenges they aim to address.
This methodology enhances the overall effectiveness and sustainability of policy interventions, ensuring that both immediate needs and long-term goals are met comprehensively.
To understand more about how the matrix view can be used, read our detailed post on Understanding Policy Portfolios. If you would like help developing or reviewing your Policy Portfolio, or assessing it for risks or missed opportunities, get in touch and we can help.