Iron Triangles and Issue Networks of Information Policy

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the policy process associated with the development of information policy and computer technology in a public agency. We borrow from two well-known theories of the policy process. One traditional theory of federal policy making argues that policy is a result of what are known as triangles.I An iron triangle is a coalition of key policy makers including members of Congress, powerful special interest lobbies, and key career bureaucrats. The theory of iron triangles postulates that federal policies emerge from the interaction, bargaining, and negotiation among key members from these three groups. An alternative theory, proposed by Hugh Heclo, argues that iron triangles are disastrously incomplete in explaining federal policy making. Instead, Heclo argues, federal policy is a result of networks.2 Issue networks are much more fluid coalitions in which sometimes anonymous participants from both inside and outside of government coalesce around a particular issue on an ad hoc basis. Issue networks, unlike iron triangles, are temporary coalitions whose members are motivated by passion and ideals as much as by the chance of some economic gain from involvement in the policy process. Both the theories of iron triangles and issues networks are very useful in describing the policymaking process and management of information technology in public organizations.