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262 Whatever the type of a policy brief, a good brief should provide background information for the reader to understand the problem, convince the reader that the problem must be addressed urgently, provide information about alternatives (in an objective brief), provide evidence to support one alternative (in an advocacy brief) and simulate the reader to make a decision. In addition, as in developing the advocacy plan, know your audience and tailor the brief to its needs. The formant of the brief is indicated below. Note that attractive briefs tend to have one or all of the extras (boxes and side bars, cases, tables, graphics and photographs). Table 5: Components of a Policy Brief Component Description Title This should be catchy and short and to the point e.g. breast-feeding in the age of HIV Executive summary One to two short paragraphs including: 1. Description of the problem addressed; 2. A statement on why the current approach/policy option needs to be changed; 3. Your recommendations for action. Context and problem statement Persuasive statement of the problem including: 1. A clear statement of the problem or issue in focus; 2. A short overview of the root causes of the problem; 3. A clear statement of the policy implications of the problem that clearly establishes the current importance and policy relevance of the issue. Critique of policy options/evidence of problem This part shows: 1. Short overview of the policy option(s) in focus; 2. An argument illustrating why and how the current or proposed approach is failing. It is important for the sake of credibility to recognise all opinions in the debate of the issue. Policy recommendations This section is achieved by including: 1. A breakdown of the specific practical steps or measures that need to be implemented; 2. Sometimes also including a closing paragraph re-emphasising the importance of action. Conclusion Not always necessary but includes problem statement and key recommendations Source: Tsai, 2006 Identifiers Remember to put the name(s) of the organisation(s) and author(s) of the brief. If you add authors, include their names, position, institution and email for correspondence. In addition, add acknowledgements of funding sponsors and contributors. Also add date and name of publisher, copyrights