This article discusses issues in the policy development practices relating to Homeland Security, and particularly terrorism. Needs, benefits, and relevant processes for developing policies will be described. Examples will be provided. Effective and consistent policy development for Homeland Security is challenged on many fronts. Factors influencing or impacting the effectiveness of this process—working with high levels of organizational complexity, defining and prioritizing threats, establishing meaningful metrics to gage progress, and clarifying roles for the preexisting National Security Community—are all paramount.