The primary objective of this study is to develop a systems-oriented analytical framework with which to better understand how formal policies serve as regulatory influences on knowledge production and utilization (KPU) in education. When completed, the framework being developed should be able to organize information about the KPU system and its governance, which is expressed in four different modes. These modes are: (a) typological--using a classificatory system for policies, agents, resources, and goal-specified activities in KPU; (b) graphical--organizational charts, time-based flowcharts, and other types of KPU systems maps; (c) numerical--time-series and other types of quantitative or statistical information about KPU; and (d) textual--nonquantitative descriptions about the KPU system in education. In subsequent applications of the approach, the framework could be used to describe and analyze the ways in which existing configurations of policies, agents, and resources interact and coact across time in various KPU activities, thereby providing a better understanding of acutal KPU system operation and how it might be improved. (Author/PB)