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Rigor is not readiness: The PERL framework for evidence-based policy
Christopher Cotton1,2,3
1Department of Economics, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
Summary
Policy Evidence Readiness Levels (PERL) help decision-makers evaluate evidence maturity and uncertainty for informed policy development.
Area of Science:
- Policy analysis
- Evidence-based decision-making
Background:
- Effective policymaking relies on robust evidence.
- Assessing the maturity and uncertainty of evidence is crucial for decision-makers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and define Policy Evidence Readiness Levels (PERL).
- To provide a framework for evaluating evidence for policy applications.
Main Methods:
- Development of a multi-dimensional framework.
- Criteria for assessing evidence maturity and uncertainty.
Main Results:
- PERL offers a structured approach to evidence assessment.
- Identifies gaps and limitations in evidence.
Conclusions:
- PERL enhances the quality of evidence used in policy.
- Supports more confident and effective policy decisions.
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