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Modeling the Evolution of a Policy Network Using Network Analysis

Mount Saint Vincent University

A six-stage model was developed to conceptualize the evolutionary process for policy networks, using the 20-year evolution of the Canadian Electronic Funds Transfer System/Point Of Sale (EFTS/POS) policy network as an example. A content analysis of 231 policy documents was used to create individual case studies of 16 stakeholders. These cases were vetted with respective stakeholders and then amalgamated into one large, chronological case study. These attribute data were converted to relational data, in the form of 51 matrices and four sets of sociograms, and then analyzed using network analysis. The results (a) show that, with some variation, the model provides a reliable map of the evolution of policy networks and (b) confirm that network analysis captures the attributes and properties of the relational dynamics inherent in stakeholder interactions during the development of policy. This augments the traditional approach of capturing the properties of actors, organizations or policy.

Key Words: modeling policy networks • policy communities • consumer • EFST • Canada

Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, Vol. 32, No. 4, 382-407 (2004)
DOI: 10.1177/1077727X04263840


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