Definitions of terms
Synoptic = Affording a comprehensive / holistic view of a whole.
Synoptic policymaking entails, in its EXTREME form, a single central authority for the whole of society, combining economic, political, and social control into one integrated planning process that makes negotiation unnecessary. (Lindblom, 1977)
The synoptic approach to policymaking is built on the following assumptions:
1- The problem at hand does not go beyond man’s cognitive capacities.
2- There exist agreed criteria by which solutions can be judged.
3- The problem solvers have adequate incentives to stay with synoptic analysis until it is completed (rather than regress to using incremental planning).