What are the expected outcomes of the programming stage?

In the programming stage of governmental budgeting and planning, one of the primary outcomes is the establishment of specific measurable objectives and the identification of cost-effective means to achieve those objectives. This phase focuses on outlining clear goals that the program intends to achieve and ensuring that these goals are realistic and quantifiable.

By setting specific and measurable objectives, government entities can create a structured plan that outlines exactly what is to be accomplished, making it easier to allocate resources efficiently. Moreover, identifying cost-effective means helps in ensuring that the program can achieve its goals within budgetary constraints and utilize resources optimally. This stage serves as a foundation for subsequent activities, such as designing, implementing, and evaluating programs, whereby having clear objectives significantly enhances the likelihood of successful outcomes and accountability in government operations.