Tech Policy
Principles
The objective of this module is to articulate principles to guide the substantive design of effective tech policy.
Developed in consultation with public servants, industry, and civil society, the principles offer a benchmark of best practice – a baseline against which good tech policy design can be measured. We thank the Australian Government’s Digital Technology Taskforce and the Tech Council of Australia for supporting this module and the consultations. The purpose statement draws on concepts articulated in Re/defining Leadership in the 21st Century, a white paper developed by the ANU School of Cybernetics and the Menzies Foundation.
Purpose Statement
Principles
01
Designing tech policy is a journey, not a destination
Designing tech policy is a journey, not a destination
Just like technology, good tech policy is agile and constantly evolving.
02
An outcome well defined, is a problem half solved
An outcome well defined, is a problem half solved
A clear articulation of the desired policy outcome is at the heart of all good tech policy design.
03
Good tech policy is responsive and timely, it creates clarity and certainty
Good tech policy is responsive and timely, it creates clarity and certainty
Effective communication is critical.
04
Consultation is a theme, not a step
Consultation is a theme, not a step
When designing tech policy, consult often, transparently, and widely.
05
Be responsive, foster feedback loops
Be responsive, foster feedback loops
Tech policy can be contentious, consensus is not always possible, but demonstrate all voices have been heard and considered.
06
Regulation should not be the default, consider all available options
Regulation should not be the default, consider all available options
Choose the most proportionate and fit-for-purpose solution (remember: bad ideas do exist).
07
Context matters, good tech policy is not designed in isolation
Context matters, good tech policy is not designed in isolation
Consider how proposed solutions will impact and interact with adjacent systems and jurisdictions (domestically and internationally).
08
Revision and refinement are strengths, not weaknesses
Revision and refinement are strengths, not weaknesses
The end of the tech policy design process is just the beginning; implementation, evaluation, and review are vital next steps.
Footnotes
- This purpose statement draws on the concept of cybernetic leadership as defined in the White Paper: Re/defining Leadership in the 21 Century: the view from cybernetics