If well-implemented, the evaluation cycle is an excellent tool for political decision-makers, making it possible to choose which one of a number of options is likely to produce the best results; manage processes through which ideas become actions, and actions produce effects; report to interested parties; to motivate beneficiaries; and learn about and enhance results based on experience.

In Italy, use of these techniques - impact analysis and assessment (AIR and VIR), measuring administrative burdens (MOA), and consultations - is often undertaken merely as a bureaucratic exercise. A system of AIRs and VIRs integrated between the various levels of government is missing; the evaluation cycle is essentially unfinished: only in very rare cases have approved acts undergone ex-post monitoring and assessment.

Good practice does, however, exist at central and local government level, and most of all at independent administrative authorities, which may serve as an example.