The policy analysis framework use by CDPA is outlined in detail in the concluding chapter of McColl & Jongbloed’s Disability and Social Policy in Canada (2006). It consists of 7 questions that guide the researcher through the key issues that define and differentiate disability policy.
- What is the objective of the policy: Equity, access, or support?
- What is the history of the policy? At whose initiative was the issue brought to public attention? Who were the proponents and detractors of the policy?
- Does the policy seek to enforce individual rights or to outline collective responsibilities?
- At what level of jurisdiction is the policy (federal, provincial, regional, municipal)? How does it correspond to other policy at that level? At other levels?
- Who is eligible to benefit from the policy? Who is included, and who is excluded from consideration?
- Does the policy provide specialized services to minority group, or does it address a universal issue?
- Who are the key stakeholders? Does the policy correspond to the mission of pertinent advocacy organizations?