This volume begins with an essay by Simone I. Flynn, who looks at all facets of the policy design processes of the United States government. In evaluating such procedures, there is an apparent relationship between maintaining policy agendas and overcoming issues concerning targeted populations. An additional matter that policy engineers typically encounter is public budgeting. Elements of public budgeting include managing the budgeting cycle and outlining budget revenue parameters. When solving budgetary and other issues coinciding with public policy, policy makers need to pay attention to the economics of public problem-solving. While an abundance of public programs would be ideal, officials must take into account funding structures and economic analysis, while at the same time striking a balance with democratic values. Cost benefit analysis can help government legislators meet this equilibrium because it allows them to weigh the benefits of a particular program against the costs that the program could incur. Flynn summarizes the current uses of this decision-making tool and also details some of the criticisms this method receives.