Policy analytics need more than a spreadsheet: a case study in funding formulae

摘要: This article presents two case studies, concerning the allocation of £Billions by a mechanism communicated via spreadsheet models. It argues that technical analytic skills as well policy development are vital component governance. In UK, Central Government uses funding formulae to distribute money local service providers. One commonly stated goal such is equity provision. However, given complexity public services, together with variations in need, delivery style and exercise stakeholder judgement which needs should be met how, frequently obscure process has been taken into account. ‘solution’ managing tensions seek ‘transparency’. With respect formulae, this involves publishing underlying data spreadsheets. paper extends argument ‘transparency’ requires an audience understands assumptions (and related conceptualisations), sources, methodological approaches interpretation results. demonstrates how search for also quality assurance goals operational research community would recognise best practice both software generally models specifically. Illustrative examples complex acting subvert drawn from English Fire Rescue Service Police formulae. former, increase amount deprivation, measured one six indicators, perverse effect decreasing financial allocation. latter, metropolitan areas London found gain most inclusion variables measuring sparsity. The conclusion these scenarios steps needed transparency mutually reinforcing goals, analysts urged make greater use development.