Quality standards for policy advice
The Ministry will seek responses from the Ministers on its performance under the 2003/2004 Output Plan against the quality standards outlined below.
Quantity
Projects will be completed by the dates set out in the 2003/2004 Output Plan. These can be modified by agreement between the Minister and the Chief Executive during the course of the year.
This measure is assessed by comparison with the 2003/2004 Output Plan outputs and subsequent amendments.
Coverage
A comprehensive service will be provided which will include:
- the capacity to react urgently
- regular interaction with Ministers to ensure that Ministry programmes meet Government priorities
- timely briefings that can anticipate issues
- support for the Minister as required.
This measure is assessed by way of the Ministerial response sheet on briefing notes and Cabinet papers.
Time
The specified reporting deadlines for projects will be met.
This measure is assessed by comparison with deadlines set in the 2003/2004 Output Plan outputs, as modified by agreement with the Minister during the year.
Cost
Outputs will be completed within budget.
This measure is assessed by comparison with the Estimates and subsequent appropriations.
Quality
Individual projects will be of a high quality, and will satisfy product quality characteristics required for Cabinet papers and other important products.
These characteristics are:
- Purpose
- The objective of the paper is clearly stated; it answers the questions asked by the Minister and demonstrates a clear understanding of the desired outcome(s) of the Government or Minister.
- Logic
- The paper identifies the roots of the policy issue, makes explicit the assumptions behind the advice, and offers a logical argument supported by facts.
- Relevance and timeliness
- Relevant facts are included and there is a discussion of known gaps that could significantly affect the conclusions. The paper is presented in sufficient time for the Government to have an appropriate response.
- Options
- An adequate range of options is represented and evaluated using costs, benefits, consequences, implications, and risks.
- Consultation
- Evidence of adequate and early consultation with other government departments, stakeholders and relevant interested parties is presented; the different views and understandings of those consulted are explained; problems and objections are identified.
- Presentation
- The paper is written in good, simple English, has an effective and concise summary, and clearly states what actions are recommended.
