Every day economic decisions are made, in both public and private sectors, based on limited information and analysis. The analysis and information needed for successful public policy has changed rapidly with the growth of the global economy, and so have the means for acquiring them. In the public sector, decisionmakers rely on information gathered within government agencies, as well as the work of academics and private firms.
Sowing the Seeds provides a case study of the need for analysis and information in support of public policy. It combines lessons learned from one of the first government agencies devoted primarily to this function with modern economic theory of organizations. The panel provides analysis and insight on:
-- How and why public economic policy evolves with technological advances.
-- The nature of information and analysis in support of economic policy produced in a government agency.
-- The characteristics of successful information and analysis programs.
-- How to evaluate the work of a government agency providing information and analysis.
-- Effective administration and organization of research and information programs in a government agency.