 | 3.4. Improving the policy roll-out | |
|---|---|---|
| ↢ | Chapter 3. Making Policy Decisions | ↣ |
We can improve the quality of policy and make implementation smoother by including measurements and defined feedback channels. These are not separate processes but dimensions of policies that circles can keep in mind for policy making.
For every policy, we recommend that circles make it a habit to ask themselves -- even before it is put into place -- how the effectiveness of policy they are generating can be evaluated. The evaluation will not only come from people but also by gathering data, asking “for this policy, what would tell us that it is working?” This could be:
click rates
numbers of new members
donations
sales
community members attending meals etc.
…
It only makes sense to track the data that the circle is willing to interpret. It’s important to make sure to put all the measures in place so the correct data can be tracked. It makes sense to create an operational role so this can happen, especially if there is more than one point in time when data has to be gathered or if a point person is open to feedback on an ongoing basis.
We want to define our feedback channels. New policy means that there might be reactions from others in the organization. The best idea to make sure implementation happens smoothly is to define early on – at the same time as publishing the policy – how the circle wants to receive feedback on that policy. For example, if the circle prefers feedback in a survey, then give access to the survey as soon as the policy is public. If there is a person identified for filling a role of gathering feedback, give their contact information so people can respond with feedback or questions.
The circle can specify:
How the circle wants to be approached:
Who to contact (operational role, leader of the circle, or the entire circle).
Through what channel (personal contact, email, a survey, a contact sheet, a physical list or whatever makes sense).
Whether there is a specific aspect the circle would like feedback on.
What the circle is tracking (if anything) as a measure of policy effectiveness.
Whether there is a preferred time frame for feedback.
Inviting and listening carefully to feedback provides learning opportunities for the circle. It also builds trust and reduces the risk of upset among members of the organization.