Define "public policy evaluation."

Public policy evaluation refers to the systematic assessment of public policies to determine their effectiveness. This process involves analyzing various aspects of a policy—such as its implementation, outcomes, and impacts— to understand whether it is achieving its intended goals. By conducting evaluations, policymakers can make informed decisions about continuing, modifying, or discontinuing specific policies.

Evaluations may involve gathering data, comparing results to established benchmarks, and assessing the policy's impact on target populations. Additionally, the findings from public policy evaluations can inform future policy decisions, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to programs that deliver positive results. This focus on systematic assessment distinguishes public policy evaluation from other activities related to governance, such as selecting candidates, creating laws, or enforcing criminal laws, which do not center on analyzing the effectiveness of existing policies.