Methods and Concepts About Evaluation

This chapter discusses the evaluation in the PDCA cycle consisting of plan (P), do (D), check (C), and action (A) for policy making. We will discuss a method that incorporates Bardach’s eight steps of policy analysis and performs policy analysis in a data-driven manner. Throughout gap analysis and data analysis to define problems based on evidence obtained at the policy analysis step, we explain how to identify gaps between ideal and current situations. Gap analysis is helpful to compare and analyze policy alternatives. Furthermore, to conduct policy analysis in a data-driven and systematic manner, it is effective to build a data infrastructure for the index values of evaluation criteria. As a data management framework, we introduce the Generalized Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM), which is practical when an organization produces data and statistics, and KPI management, which is essential when an organization manages its process based on KPIs.