ABSTRACT
OK, so you are probably tired by now. After all, we have challenged your mind by providing you with a theoretical understanding of policy analysis. You understand how public problems are socially constructed and that value conflict is omnipresent. You have a basis to evaluate theoretical models and know the strengths, limitations, and uses of multiple models and methods. You have spent time in Allegheny County and Yellowstone National Park. You have seen the failings of American policy in Vietnam and debated the causes of school shootings. In short, you should start to feel that you are becoming familiar with the role of the policy analyst. You have knowledge and skills. These skills-stakeholder mapping, narrative analysis, content analysis, focus group facilitation, and futuring (among others)—are useful for any future policy analyst. We would like to conclude and send you on your way now. That is, have you go out into the world and practice policy analysis as taught in this book. But first, there are a few more pragmatic skills that you still need to learn.
