AGENCY POLICY THEORY PRACTICE First Theory Outline Getting

AGENCY POLICY: THEORY &PRACTICE

First. Theory

Outline Getting on the same page 4 The theory and language of policy The Policy Process 4 Putting theory into practice Closing the Gap 4 Improving the Training 4 Improving the Process

Hierarchy of Government Authority 4 Constitution 4 Law – RCW 4 Rule – WAC 4 Policy 4 Procedure 4 Forms

Why are polices important? 4 Provides direction for decision-making and actions 4 Establishes responsibilities and accountability. 4 Helps ensure compliance and reduce institutional risk. 4 Used to establish and/or defend a legal basis for action.

The words we use What is a Policy? 4 Derives from the statutory authority of the Director. 4 States an agency position; 4 Describes mandates, community beliefs and boundaries; 4 Has consequences for violation.

The words we use What is a Procedure? 4 Tells us how 4 Includes who, what, when and where 4 The customary or standard practice way of handling situations

The words we use What is a Standard? 4 A level of quality that is required to be followed; 4 Serves as a basis for comparison; 4 Whenever possible standards should support a policy or procedure and be included in them.

The words we use What is a Guideline? 4 Provides guidance to appropriate action but may be optional; 4 Recommends a way but alternatives may be possible; 4 Whenever possible guidelines should support a policy or procedure.

Leaving the Theory Zone

Policy Development Process Best Practices

Best Practices

Policies: 4 Supports mission and goals; 4 Applies agency-wide; 4 Impacts a substantial number of employees or communities; 4 Promotes consistency, efficiency, and effectiveness and/or mitigates or manages significant agency risk.

How is agency policy categorized? Agency policy typically falls into two categories: 4 Administrative (internal) 4 Agency wide 4 Divisional or program 4 Enterprise (external) 4 Statewide

What does a Policy Office do? 4 Oversees and coordinates policy development; 4 Supports policy owners; 4 Assists decision making by executives and managers; 4 Maintains the agency policy library.

Why use a standard format? 4 Defines the various optional and mandatory parts of a policy. 4 By standardizing the way that policies are presented to the reader, policies are easier to read and understand.

Use a feedback loop 4 Designed for learning and constant improvement; 4 Reviewed with both the policy owner and agency leadership; 4 Used when considering revisions to the policy and procedures.

A practical approach

Initiate

Develop Initial Draft

Gain Approval

Communicate and Rollout

it’s the gap between policy and practice where things start to get interesting…

Manage and Maintain

Learning Loop 4 Closing the Gap 4 Improve the Training 4 Improve the Process

A time for discussion An opportunity for you to address any additional areas

Resources 4 DES Small Agency Services Contact DES Small Agency Services 4 Jack Zeigler, DES Policy and Rules Manager Phone: 360 -407 -9209 Email: jack. zeigler@des. wa. gov

Thank you.