In the policy process, which stage typically follows policy formulation?

• A. Evaluation
• B. Agenda setting
• C. Implementation
• D. Adoption

Answer: (D)

In policy work, after crafting and weighing policy options during formulation, the next step is adoption. Adoption means giving formal approval to a chosen policy option and authorizing it to move forward, typically through a decision by the legislative body or the responsible authority. This is what turns the ideas and plans into an official policy action that can be implemented.

After adoption, the process proceeds to implementation, where the policy is put into practice, and then to evaluation to assess its effects. Agenda setting and formulation occur earlier in the process, shaping what issues are considered and what options are developed.