The Digital Infrastructure Inspectorate (RDI) commissioned research on how supervisors can best use guidance. Guidance is directional explanation from a supervisor to organizations or citizens on how rules can be interpreted and applied. It is an important tool within responsive supervision: it provides clarity and direction without imposing legal obligations. Until now, there was little guidance on when guidance is effective and how supervisors can apply it carefully.
The research was conducted by Prof. Judith van Erp (Utrecht University) and Dr. Aute Kasdorp, in collaboration with several Dutch supervisors. Based on literature research, practical examples, and interviews, they developed two practical guidelines that directly support supervisors in the use of guidance.
Two New Guidelines
1. Strategic GuidelineSupports supervisors in developing a consistent and well-considered policy for the use of guidance.
2. Practical GuidelineProvides concrete tools and a step-by-step plan for professionals who develop and apply guidance in practice.
Why This Is Important
Guidance closely aligns with the ambition of the RDI and the Inspection Council to conduct responsive supervision: supervision that is in dialogue with society, picks up signals, and stimulates socially desirable behavior. The new guidelines help supervisors use guidance more consciously, consistently, and effectively, with attention to their own responsibility and reducing regulatory pressure.
What Makes Guidance Effective?
The research shows that effective guidance depends on several critical success factors, such as target group orientation, support among stakeholders, good timing, and clear communication about status and purpose. Furthermore, the research shows that the effectiveness of guidance is still rarely measured systematically. Structural monitoring and evaluation are important to learn and further improve guidance.
What Happens Now?
The RDI will actively use the guidelines in its supervision and share the publications with other supervisors. This way, the RDI contributes to knowledge sharing and a more consistent use of guidance within public supervision.