Allio Rodrigoconsulting

allio|rodrigoconsulting

Annex XII

Training Seminar

Draft Programme Outline

1.Introduction

This is a Working Note outlining the rationale and preliminary agenda of the training programme envisaged to take place from 2 to 6 September 2015 in Dilijan, Armenia.

The Training is part and parcel of the Project on “Strengthening the Capacity of Regulatory Reform Unit of the Government of Armenia on Regulatory Impact Assessment”, run by the National Centre for Legislative Regulation (NCLR).

2.Objectives

The specific objectives of this Training are:

• principally, to increase the understanding by participants of evidence-based decision-making in general, and RIAin particular,
• to outline and investigate how to make operational the key analytical steps constituting RIA;
• to undertake simulated exercises of a typical RIA;
• to review different approaches to RIA, based on international experience
• to discuss how impact assessment can be introduced into the government system in Armenia.

3.Comments

The Training is designed and conducted by Dr. Lorenzo Allio, Owner and Director of allio|rodrigo consulting, who collaborates with the NCLR as International Consultant.The NCLR will be responsible for the logistics. The Training will be in English.

This Training covers the fundamental elements of RIA (tool and process). As such, it is to be considered as the first of a series of capacity building initiatives. It is addressed specifically to the staff of the NCLR Regulatory Reform Unit.

The Training is nonetheless designed to be compatible with, support and complement the guidance material that the Regulatory Reform Unit is going to prepare for disseminating knowledge of RIA more widely. Accordingly, this basic format of the training may serve to design subsequent courses to wider audiences in the various ministries and agencies of the Armenian Government.

The Training is grounded on sound theoretical foundations but it follows an explicit practice-oriented approach. The close interaction with the participant is a pre-condition for the success of any training. Examples and case studies will therefore be integral part of the seminar. They are supposed to assist the participants with assimilating key principle and concepts, while considering international experiences from which lessons may be learned.

The envisaged programme is expected to unfold over four days. It is conceived in relatively autonomous modules, so that the product can best fit the allocation of time available to the participants as well as the expectations and needs arising on the spot. Overall, between 10.5 (minimum) and 21 hours, approximatively, should be devoted to the training, depending on the format selected (see Programme below). In particular,

• Modules 0–6 (in blue, min. 8.5 hours): these are mandatory and refer to the main analytical and procedural steps characterising the RIA process. The order of these modules should not be amended, since it is consistent with the logical steps that administrators should undertake when carrying out RIA.
• Breakout sessions A–D(in yellow, 4x 2 hours): these are interactive exercises allowing participants to familiarise with the practice of carrying out a RIA and of assessing RIA reports. On the basis of selected case studies, participants will be asked to develop their thinking of policy formulation, apply the new notions, focusing each time to different aspects of the RIA process. These sessions can be “inserted” between the Modules as best fits the timing and programme. At least one of such sessions should be mandatory part of the training programme. Organising more than two breakout sessions is expected to increase the quality of the exercise, both because the feedback received from the previous interactive cases and the importance of learning-by-doing when it comes to apply the “RIA logic”.
• Horizontal modules A–B (in green, 2x 1 hour): these seek to illustrate international models of how RIA systems can be organised and perform. Most importantly, these modules provide lessons that may be learned and applied for the development of the emerging RIA system in Armenia. Like the breakout sessions(but to a lesser extent), also these modules can be “inserted” at will along the programme.
• In-depth discussion (in brown, 2 hours): as an option and upon demand, to deepen knowledge of the participants and familiarise them further with specific elements and aspects pertaining to RIA.
• Final test (in pink, 0.5 hour):as an option a short test might be designed at the end of the seminar as an incentive to attending and following the training.

The week’s programme further includes time to discuss in detail possible procedural and methodological arrangements of the future RIA system in Armenia.

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4. Programme outline

Module 0
1 h / Introduction:
Evidence-based policy-making and RIA
This session will present the rationale to establish a RIA process in support of decision-making. In addition, the concept of policy-making and policy cycle will be addressed in more depth.
Discussion
Module 1
1.5 h / The mechanics of RIA (I):
Characterising the problem and setting the baseline
Problem identification is arguably the most important single component of a RIA. This session will outline the pitfalls most commonly faced when characterising the problem and the main methodologies used to effectively disentangle cause-effects relationships.
RIA is the analysis of relative change compared to the status quo. The session will therefore also look at how RIA drafters need to address the so-called “no action” option.
Discussion
Module 2
0.5 h / The mechanics of RIA (II):
Setting the objective(s)
Public policy intervention objectives must be aspirational, but need to be closely linked to the problem(s) identified. This session will illustrate how to define and present useful and realistic objectives that can be tracked effectively.
Discussion / Exercise
Breakout session (A) – Interactive case study exercise
2 h
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experienceand the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
Module 3
1 h / The mechanics of RIA (III):
Data collection and public consultation
Data collection may represent a challenge to RIA drafters. Data needs to be collected (or even: created), validated and processed; and this process can be costly, time consuming and difficult.
Public consultation is fundamental ancillary activity to RIA, as it supports the analysis and enhances transparency.
This session will look into the ways data collection and consultation can be organised effectively and in a systematic way. The session will also address the challenges related to these important phases of the RIA process.
Discussion
Module 4
2 h / The mechanics of RIA (IV):
Determining the impacts of public policy
This session will look into how to identify and calculate regulatory costs and benefits, and for which sub-population / sector. Various categories of these impacts will be discussed, including compliance costs, opportunity costs, administrative burdens, and risk management benefits.
If appropriate, the session will introduce the notion of Net Present Value and discounting and their application in the RIA process.
Discussion
Module 5
2 h / The mechanics of RIA (V):
Balancing the impacts – the formulation of options
Public policy options (regulatory and non-regulatory) can be situated on a continuum from more intrusive to more respectful of markets and individual choice. This session will review possible options (or mixes of them) that can lead to effective decision-making.
The session will examine the methodologies most commonly used to outline the options that are likely to achieve the set objectives. Methodologies will /may include Cost-Benefit Analysis, Cost-Effectiveness Analysis, Least Cost Analysis, Compliance Cost Analysis, the Standard Cost Model, and Multi-Criteria Analysis.
Discussion
Breakout session (B) – Interactive case study exercise
2 h
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experienceand the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
Module 6
0.5 h / The mechanics of RIA (VI):
Monitoring and Evaluation arrangements
RIA should also consider implementation aspects (of the preferred option at least). This session will show how to anticipate the post-adoption phase and how to detail M&E arrangements in the final RIA report.
Discussion
Horizontal Module A
1h / Case study (I)
RIA in the European Union and some lessons learned
This session will examine the rationale and evolution of RIA in the EU, looking into the organization of the process within the European Commission and some evidence of the experience so far. The aim of this case study is to draw possible lessons to be applied to the Armenian emerging system, notably in terms of “governance”.
Discussion
Breakout session (C) – Interactive case study exercise
2 h
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experienceand the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
Breakout session (D) – Interactive case study exercise
2 h
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experienceand the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
Horizontal Module B
1 h / Case Study (II)
The development of RIA in the UK and some lessons learned
This is a further session illustrating the UK experience with RIA, always with the aim of sharing possible approaches that might be considered for the Armenian context.
Discussion
In-depth discussion
2 h / The development of RIA in the UK and some lessons learned
This session can be included in the programme if the need arises. It will offer the opportunity to the participants to further discuss and explore in more details specific aspects of what covered by the main programme. This may relate to procedural aspects (for instance, how to best introduce / enhance RIA practices in Armenia) or analytical aspects related to RIA, including some additional examples and practical case studies.
Wrap-up session and final test
0.5 h
A final evaluation exercise will take place to highlight the knowledge acquired by participants during the training; to assess the appropriateness and effectiveness of the training and provide recommendations for further refinement of the training.
Discussion

5. Envisaged agenda

The sessions are likely to be delivered between 9am and 6pm.

Current thinking is to design the training agenda as indicated in the table below. Emphasis is specifically put on a “learning-by-doing” approach, with all breakout sessions (exercises) included in the formal programme.

DAYS / Wed
2 SEPT / Thu
3 SEPT / Fri
4 SEPT / Sat
5 SEPT / Sun
6 SEPT
AM / Trip to
DILIJAN / Module 2
Breakout Session A / Module 5
Breakout Session B / Breakout Session D
Case Study
I and/or II / Return to
YEREVAN
PM / Module 0
Module 1 / Module 3
Module 4 / Module 6
Breakout Session C / In-depth discussion

Lorenzo Allio

31.07.15

Training Seminar Agenda

In the frames of the Project

“Strengthening the Capacity of Regulatory Reform Unit of the Government of Armenia on Regulatory Impact Assessment”

by the National Centre for Legislative Regulation

September 2-6, 2015

Dilijan, Best Western Hotel

Trainer: Lorenzo Allio

Sept 2, 2015
9:30 / Departure to Dilijan
11:30-12:00 / Coffee Break
12:00-13:00 / Introduction:
Evidence-based policy-making and RIA
This session will present the rationale to establish a RIA process in support of decision-making. In addition, the concept of policy-making and policy cycle will be addressed in more depth.
Discussion
13:00-14:00 / Lunch
14:00 – 15:00 / The mechanics of RIA (I):
Characterising the problem and setting the baseline, part A
Problem identification is arguably the most important single component of a RIA. This session will outline the pitfalls most commonly faced when characterising the problem and the main methodologies used to effectively disentangle cause-effects relationships.
RIA is the analysis of relative change compared to the status quo. The session will therefore also look at how RIA drafters need to address the so-called “no action” option.
15:00-15:30 / Coffee Break
15:30-16:00 / The mechanics of RIA (I):
Characterising the problem and setting the baseline, part B
Discussion
19:00 / Dinner
Sept 3, 2015
7:30-8:45 / Breakfast
9:00-9:30 / The mechanics of RIA (II):
Setting the objective(s)
Public policy intervention objectives must be aspirational, but need to be closely linked to the problem(s) identified. This session will illustrate how to define and present useful and realistic objectives that can be tracked effectively.
Discussion / Exercise
9:30-11:30 / Breakout session (A) – Interactive case study exercise
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experience and the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
11:30-12:00 / Coffee Break
12:00-13:00 / The mechanics of RIA (III):
Data collection and public consultation
Data collection may represent a challenge to RIA drafters. Data needs to be collected (or even: created), validated and processed; and this process can be costly, time consuming and difficult.
Public consultation is fundamental ancillary activity to RIA, as it supports the analysis and enhances transparency.
This session will look into the ways data collection and consultation can be organised effectively and in a systematic way. The session will also address the challenges related to these important phases of the RIA process.
Discussion
13:00-14:00 / Lunch
14:00 – 15:00 / The mechanics of RIA (IV):
Determining the impacts of public policy
This session will look into how to identify and calculate regulatory costs and benefits, and for which sub-population / sector. Various categories of these impacts will be discussed, including compliance costs, opportunity costs, administrative burdens, and risk management benefits.
If appropriate, the session will introduce the notion of Net Present Value and discounting and their application in the RIA process.
Discussion
15:00-15:30 / Coffee Break
15:30-16:30 / Continuation
The mechanics of RIA (IV):
Determining the impacts of public policy
This session will look into how to identify and calculate regulatory costs and benefits, and for which sub-population / sector. Various categories of these impacts will be discussed, including compliance costs, opportunity costs, administrative burdens, and risk management benefits.
If appropriate, the session will introduce the notion of Net Present Value and discounting and their application in the RIA process.
Discussion
19:00 / Dinner
Sept 4, 2015
7:30-8:45 / Breakfast
9:00-11:00 / The mechanics of RIA (V):
Balancing the impacts – the formulation of options
Public policy options (regulatory and non-regulatory) can be situated on a continuum from more intrusive to more respectful of markets and individual choice. This session will review possible options (or mixes of them) that can lead to effective decision-making.
The session will examine the methodologies most commonly used to outline the options that are likely to achieve the set objectives. Methodologies will / may include Cost-Benefit Analysis, Cost-Effectiveness Analysis, Least Cost Analysis, Compliance Cost Analysis, the Standard Cost Model, and Multi-Criteria Analysis.
Discussion
11:00-11:30 / Coffee Break
11:30-13:00 / Breakout session (B) – Interactive case study exercise, part A
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experience and the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
13:00-14:00 / Lunch
14:00-14:30 / Breakout session (B) – Interactive case study exercise, part B
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experience and the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
14:30-15:00 / The mechanics of RIA (VI):
Monitoring and Evaluation arrangements
RIA should also consider implementation aspects (of the preferred option at least). This session will show how to anticipate the post-adoption phase and how to detail M&E arrangements in the final RIA report.
Discussion
15:00-16:00 / Case study (I)
RIA in the European Union and some lessons learned
This session will examine the rationale and evolution of RIA in the EU, looking into the organization of the process within the European Commission and some evidence of the experience so far. The aim of this case study is to draw possible lessons to be applied to the Armenian emerging system, notably in terms of “governance”.
Discussion
16:00-16:30 / Coffee Break
16:30-18:30 / Breakout session (C) – Interactive case study exercise
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experience and the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
19:00 / Dinner
Sept 5, 2015
7:30-8:45 / Breakfast
9:00-11:00 / Breakout session (D) – Interactive case study exercise
Participants will be broken into sub-groups (as appropriate). The task for each group is to assess a policy challenge outlined by the trainer and, based on their experience and the presentations so far, outline how this policy challenge could be developed / advanced in the context of the policy-making cycle.
Each group will appoint a “rapporteur” presenting the finding of the exercise.
Feedback and discussion
11:00-11:30 / Coffee Break
11:30-12:30 / Case Study (II)
The development of RIA in the UK and some lessons learned
This is a further session illustrating the UK experience with RIA, always with the aim of sharing possible approaches that might be considered for the Armenian context.
Discussion
13:00-14:00 / Lunch
14:00 – 15:00 / In-depth discussion, Part A
The development of RIA in the UK and some lessons learned
This session can be included in the programme if the need arises. It will offer the opportunity to the participants to further discuss and explore in more details specific aspects of what covered by the main programme. This may relate to procedural aspects (for instance, how to best introduce / enhance RIA practices in Armenia) or analytical aspects related to RIA, including some additional examples and practical case studies.
15:00-15:30 / Coffee Break
15:30-16:30 / In-depth discussion, Part B
The development of RIA in the UK and some lessons learned
This session can be included in the programme if the need arises. It will offer the opportunity to the participants to further discuss and explore in more details specific aspects of what covered by the main programme. This may relate to procedural aspects (for instance, how to best introduce / enhance RIA practices in Armenia) or analytical aspects related to RIA, including some additional examples and practical case studies.
19:00 / Dinner
Sept 6, 2015
7:30-8:45 / Breakfast
9:00-9:30 / Wrap-up session and final test
A final evaluation exercise will take place to highlight the knowledge acquired by participants during the training; to assess the appropriateness and effectiveness of the training and provide recommendations for further refinement of the training.
Discussion
10:00-10:30 / Coffee Break
11:00 / Departure to Yerevan

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