ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes the analysts in the cases that share some basic similarities with their “ancestors.” The analysts continue to confront uncertain criteria that would provide them with a definition of success. The field of policy analysis had its original roots in the world of decision-making and practice, its development over a half century has created an academic field that is located around the globe. Analysts were usually located in organizational units attached to the highest levels of a department or agency and found themselves separated from staff units charged with operating responsibilities. By the end of the twentieth century, the list of skill areas that were thought to be relevant to a skilled policy analyst had become more extensive. For some analysts, the responsibilities attached to the relationship with a client seemed to be a departure from the values of objectivity and neutrality built into the research role.
