Whilst much has been written on the macro- and meso-dimensions of policy design, far less attention has been given to the ways in which specific policy goals, objectives, and instruments are applied in reality. This book addresses this important oversight by examining the micro-dimension of policy design.

The open access book highlights how the micro-dimension of policy design consists of two important components – specifications and calibrations. These components are crucial in translating policy goals into tangible outcomes. By focusing more closely on the micro-dimension of policy design, the book puts forward an important new framework to enable practitioners, analysts and decision makers to design better policies and attain policy success. It also helps us to better understand the reasons behind political conflicts in policymaking. It will appeal to scholars and students of public policy, public administration and public management, as well as practitioners.

Giliberto Capano is Professor of Political Science and Public Policy at the University of Bologna, Italy.

Michael Howlett is Burnaby Mountain Professor and Canada Research Chair in the Department of Political Science, Simon Fraser University, Canada.