PART ONE
Forecasting within program evaluation creates the opportunity for public administrators to develop a variety of futures or predictions about what might occur based on the decisions that are made.
Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:
What is the value of sharing these potential alternatives with legislators when determining departmental budgets for an upcoming year?
What challenges exist when legislators are aware of different futures
PART TWO
Respond to Mindy Shaw with 175 words
In any case sharing information of future predictors to legislative is always helpful. When forecasting budgets in program evaluation that sets a standard of preparation for legislation. Sharing the information on legislation is always helpful because legislation will know exactly what to expect and if there should be an issue they can counter the issue and be prepared for any seen or unforeseen circumstance. One potential way I’m sharing features are predictors on legislation in budgeting in the school system. If a higher budget is provided the future outcome would be more books for students more income for teachers. No teacher strikes and possibly even students having opportunities throughout the year for extra curriculums. These changes will in turn go up higher to produce test scores that will affect the state which will affect future budgets. The biggest challenges that are faced with legislation and alternate futures is possibility of failure for multiple futures. If multiple failures appear then re budgeting and new forecast will have to be pursued. Another major issue would be the denial of the budget itself not successfully obtain budget through denied proposal.
PART THREE
Respond with 175 words (Carilynn)
Greetings to all,
There is tremendous value in sharing information. By presenting various potential alternatives, legislators gain a clearer understanding of both, the potential outcomes and impacts, with varying budgetary choices. This allows them to make more informed decisions which align with broader policy goals and priorities. There is also the component of managing risk. Different scenarios provide a way to assess risks and uncertainties associated with budget decisions. This way, legislators are able to evaluate how budgets might perform under various economic conditions or other unforeseen events. This enables them to allocate resources in a more efficient and effective manner. Sharing alternative scenarios fosters transparency in the budgeting process. It demonstrates that decision-making is based on a comprehensive analysis of potential outcomes, rather than on a single forecast. This can certainly enhance accountability by showing that decisions are based on a rigorous evaluation of options. Lastly, most budgets are set for a fixed period of time. However, circumstances occur all the time and change that. By presenting alternative scenarios, it allows for legislators to anticipate potential changes; thus, creating some sort of flexibility into the budgeting process. As with any other task, there are certain challenges associated when legislators are aware of different futures. At times, having multiple scenarios can complicate decision-making. Legislators may find it challenging to weigh the trade-offs between different alternatives and determine the most appropriate course of action. Another challenge associated with this are resources. Evaluating multiple scenarios takes time, proficiency and financial responsibilities. Therefore, this in itself may pose significant complexities when legislators have sight of different futures.
Giancola, S. P. (2021). Program evaluation. SAGE Publications.
