People’s policies are based on their basic assumptions and beliefs about the world. So they’re very difficult to change, and efforts to do so need patience and sensitivity. But when it’s worth the effort, policy changes can be powerful tools for addressing a wide range of issues.
Governments often use incentives rather than punishment to encourage desired behavior and discourage undesirable behavior. For example, they might reward businesses that comply with regulations or punish those that break the law.
Policy changes can also be driven by events, such as natural disasters or a terrorist attack. These “focusing events” create a sense of urgency and allow groups or individuals to gain support for their policy-change proposals.
Another factor that can trigger policy changes is the perception that current policies aren’t working. For example, a drug problem may be out of control despite increased enforcement and punishment. In this case, people may be willing to try alternatives like treatment programs or community-based initiatives.
Finally, judicial decisions or legal interpretations can prompt policy changes. These types of changes usually involve a new or revised interpretation of existing laws, but they can also be the result of a new law being passed.
Organizations can help facilitate effective policy changes by being proactive about updating their policies and procedures when needed. This can lead to smoother transitions and higher compliance rates within the workforce. They can also improve training and communication to increase employee awareness and understanding of why the policies are changing.