Unlocking policy success: is codesign the key to achieving effective policy outcomes?

Abstract

Codesign is increasingly promoted as best-practice and a solution to many policy ills, yet there is little empirical evidence suggesting that it is actually more effective for designing and implementing policy. This article investigates whether codesigned policies and programs are in fact more successful in achieving positive policy outcomes by applying the policy success framework to the codesign process behind the Australian Capital Territory’s Family Safety Hub. Using this framework, we conclude that codesign can have a significant positive impact on the process when it is done well, but its effect on longer-term program and political success depends heavily on other factors. The use of codesign as a stand-alone policy tool is limited, but further research is needed to understand how the value it generates in the early design stages can be translated into better implementation and positive program outcomes.