Policy analysis for planners involves a systematic approach to evaluate policies, incorporating stakeholder input and focusing on actionable outcomes to inform decision-making. Option B (use of systematic methods to evaluate policy, with the input of teams and stakeholders, and with a focus on actionable outcomes) best describes this process. The APA'sAICP Certification Exam Content Outline(2022), under "Plan and Policy Development," defines policy analysis as "a systematic process that evaluates policy options using stakeholder input, data, and focuses on producing actionable recommendations." Option A (surveys and polling) is a tool within policy analysis but not the process itself. Option C (numerical measurement techniques) is too narrow, as policy analysis includes qualitative methods. Option D (reviewing policy language) is a technical editing task, not analysis. TheCPC Study Manual(2024) states, "Policy analysis involves systematic evaluation with stakeholder input to produce actionable outcomes," supporting option B.
References: APA AICP Certification Exam Content Outline (2022), CPC Study Manual (2024), APA PAS Report on Policy Analysis.