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261 Developing policy briefs. One of the methods used to advocate is a policy brief. A policy brief is a product of research and can also be developed from a situational analysis during the development of an advocacy plan. Policy incudes legislations, laws, statements or prevailing practices enacted by those in authority to guide or control institutional, community and sometimes individual behaviour (WHO, 2008). A policy brief is a concise summary of a particular issue, the policy options to deal with it and some recommendations on the best options. It presents research or evaluation findings to policy actors, highlighting the relevance of the specific research to policy and offering recommendations for change. (FAO, n.d.). A typical format is an A4 sheet report containing 700-1000 words (See Focus Box 9). Policy-makers need to make practical decisions under time constraints, so, a policy brief should provide evidence and actionable recommendations within a page or two. It has an attractive design and may have one or more photograph(s). Long briefs are also common. Types of policy briefs There are two basic types of policy briefs: 1. An advocacy brief – argues in favour of a particular cause of action 2. An objective brief – gives balanced information for policy-makers to make up their mind. Focus Box 9: Policy Brief Sample