What is a policy memo?

A policy memo is a concise, well-structured professional document. It informs policymakers, government officials, and other stakeholders about a pressing issue, presenting clear recommendations supported by evidence. Policy memos aim to facilitate quick, informed decision-making.

At the GSD, policy memos may be used in urban planning, real estate, and environmental policy courses. They require a balance of technical knowledge and persuasive argumentation, with a focus on spatial, economic, or governance-related issue.

Structure

  1. Header
    • Date
    • To (Recipient)
    • From (Author)
    • Subject (Concise topic summary)
  2. Executive Summary
    • A brief overview of the issue, key findings, and primary recommendation(s)
  3. Problem Statement
    • A succinct description of the issue, including relevant background information
  4. Analysis
    • Key evidence, data, and arguments supporting the recommendations
    • Consideration of potential alternatives
  5. Conclusion
    • Restates key takeaways and reinforces the urgency of action
  6. References (if applicable)
    • Citations or supporting materials, if necessary

What is a policy brief?

A policy brief is a short, focused document that presents an issue, explains its significance, and outlines policy options. Unlike a policy memo, which is typically addressed to a specific decision-maker and contains direct recommendations, a policy brief provides an overview of possible approaches without prescribing a single solution. Policy briefs are used to educate stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, and the general public, about a policy issue. They highlight key debates and provide an accessible summary of research findings to inform decision-making.

For students in urban planning or real estate, policy briefs may be used to present land use policies, housing strategies, or infrastructure solutions. They encourage critical thinking about policy trade-offs while remaining accessible to a broader audience.

Structure

  1. Title
    • Engaging, descriptive, and policy-relevant
  2. Executive Summary
    • A concise introduction to the issue and key takeaways
  3. Background & Context
    • Explanation of the issue's significance
    • Relevant data and historical context
  4. Policy options
    • Overview of different approaches to addressing the issue
    • Comparative analysis of potential benefits and drawbacks
  5. Conclusions & Implications
    • Key insights and considerations for future action
  6. References & Further Reading (if applicable)