InfoGuides: PUAD 502 Administration in Public & Non Profit Organizations: Find Policy Analysis

Core databases for reports, working papers, etc.

Use these databases to find working papers, policy analyses, and other grey literature from research institutes, think tanks, etc.

If you use these databases off campus, you'll be asked to enter your GMU ID (first part of your email) and password.

Policy File Index This link opens in a new window
Access domestic and foreign public policy research and analytical papers on governmental and legal topics, representing the work of think tanks, research groups, and academic institutes from 1990 to present. Tutorial for Policy File Index database.
Columbia International Affairs Online (CIAO) This link opens in a new window
Provides a wide range of scholarship in international affairs from 1991 onward that includes working papers from university research institutes, occasional papers series from NGOs, conference proceedings, books, journals, and policy briefs. Also includes teaching materials such as case studies and course packs of background readings. Contains links to international affairs centers, institutes, and other resources; U.S., international, and foreign government sites; environmental studies web pages; and news media services. All sections updated monthly.

HKS Think Tank Search
Search across 480 think tank websites.
Find Policy
Select the appropriate policy area to search for reports from leading think tanks in that field. NOT an academic/scholarly resource, but great for figuring out current policy questions & debates.

Think Tanks

This list represents a selection of think tanks and research institutes working on multiple policy issues. The descriptions provided here use the institutions' own language in their "about" pages and mission statements.

For rankings of think tanks, refer to the annual TTCSP Go To Global Think Tank Report.
For a searchable database of think tank profiles, see the Open Think Tank Directory.
For advice on using think tank reports in your research, see this tip sheet.
Think tank watchdog organizations include: Transparify and On Think Tanks.

American Enterprise Institute
A nonpartisan think tank emphasizing individual liberty and free enterprise.
Brookings Institution
Nonpartisan think tank.
The Cato Institute
Nonpartisan, libertarian think tank (principles: "individual liberty, limited government, free markets and peace")
Center for American Progress
Nonpartisan, progressive think tank.
Council on Foreign Relations
Nonpartisan think tank focused on global politics. Publishes Foreign Affairs magazine.
The Heritage Foundation
Conservative think tank.

RAND Publications This link opens in a new window
Index, abstracts and full-text of over 20,000 titles in the RAND archive dating back to 1946. Covers areas in energy, education, health, justice, the environment, and international and military affairs. Tutorial for the RAND Publications database.

The Urban Institute
Nonpartisan think tank focused on economic and social policy.