• Define the problem
• Gather evidence
• Identify causes
• Evaluate a policy
• Develop solutions
• Select best solution
• Benefits & Costs
• The Prince System
• Political Strategies

• Information Tools
• Problem Resources
• Teacher Information
• Help

Estimating Priority

Priority is defined as the importance that the player attaches to supporting or opposing the decision relative to all other decisions with which that player is concerned. Priority is expressed as a number ranging from 1 to 5. A 1 indicates slight interest or concern for the issue regardless of the player's issue position and power. A 2 is assigned for those players with some concern, while a 3 and 4 indicate substantial concern. A 5 is reserved for those players that assign the highest priority to the issue.

When estimating priority:

• Determine the frequency and intensity with which each player makes public statements about the issue.
• From the player's social, political, and economic interest, determine the importance the player is likely to attach to the decision.
• Watch out for the fact that priority can be rapidly and substantially altered by external events and the intrusion of other issues.
• Remember that other issues and factors compete for the player's attention and, hence priority.

Estimating Issue Position, Power, and Priority for Each Player