A diagnostic framework for robust and micro-calibrated policy design: connecting the robustness of policy to the design choices that produce it

Professor Giliberto Capano
ANZSOG Academic Fellow | University of Bologna

This paper presents a framework for assessing policy robustness through the design of policy instruments. Developed as part of Professor Giliberto Capano’s ANZSOG Academic Fellowship, it brings together research on policy robustness and policy design and translates these ideas into a practical tool for policymakers.

The framework is based on the idea that the robustness of policies come down to the decisions made when they are designed. It provides a structured way to examine how choices about policy goals, implementation arrangements and other design features influence a policy’s ability to adapt and continue delivering results when circumstances change.

The publication introduces ten micro-design dimensions covering policy goals and policy means, alongside a set of robustness dimensions drawn from the policy design and governance literature. It explains how these dimensions can be assessed and used to build a picture of the strengths and weaknesses of a policy or reform.

Designed for policy development, implementation planning and policy review, the framework helps users identify areas of strength and vulnerability. It also helps distinguish between issues that can be addressed through changes to policy design and those that depend on institutional capacity and implementation arrangements.

The publication includes guidance on applying the framework, illustrative examples and diagnostic worksheets for assessing policy robustness before implementation. It complements the companion publication, Designing Robust and Micro-Calibrated Policy, which applies the framework to two Australian policy reforms.