Argument and Policy Memorandum

Develop a recommendation that is legally, economically, financially, and practically defensible.

Question, audience, and jurisdiction

Define the decision, the decision-maker, legal authority, affected population, time horizon, and constraints.

Current conditions and evidence

Summarize the most reliable relevant evidence and acknowledge material uncertainty.

Alternatives

Present at least three options, including the status quo when appropriate. Apply the same criteria to each.

Analysis and tradeoffs

Evaluate legality, incentives, cost, benefit, distribution, rights, implementation, risk, and unintended consequences.

Recommendation and revision trigger

Recommend a course of action, identify implementation steps and metrics, and state what evidence would cause revision.