These criteria set a general framework for monitoring existing and proposed legislation. But monitoring the actual policy needs of SME is difficult even in advanced economies. There is a need to establish mechanisms for effective public-private sector dialogue and feedback from those who implement legislation. Business associations from time to time can undertake studies of members’ needs and governments anticipating a particularly acute problem or proposing new forms of legislation may commission surveys. In some economies, independent agencies or semi-independent trusts undertake regular surveys for this purpose. But it is extremely difficult, using survey methods, to explore the in-depth problems that a particular piece of legislation.
