Three Questions Raised in Bardach's Eightfold Path to More Effective Problem Solving

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Discussion Forum for A Social Work (Policy-Oriented) Class
Bardach (2015) in his Eightfold path to more effective problem solving, argues that problem solving will be a success only when policy makers learn to touch base with critics, gain credibility, and broker a consensus. Brokering consensus makes on more of a partner than an outsider. The question often is, “who is likely to object your point of view, and why are they objecting it?”. With such question, it is possible to identify the faction that disagrees and broker a solution that works for everyone (Bardach, 2015, pp. 20). Factoring in other people’s opinions including already existing literature sets the basis for identifying alternative course of action or even alternative policy option.
In policy making, the point is to arrive at the best solution to an identified problem and by learning more through pilot studies or by negotiating with important players it becomes possible to arrive at the best policy decision. Critical attitude of guesstimates and alternatives presented by political actors through proposals, politicians’ ideas, and political ideologies advocated. A common question for policy analyst is, “will it makes sense to try some version of this generic strategy to help mitigate the problem?” (Bardach, 2015, pp.18). While reviewing alternatives it is always important to scrutinize each befor...