communicating research to policymakers "the road to inaction is paved with research...
Post on 20-Dec-2015
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Communicating Research to Policymakers
"The road to inaction is paved with research reports"
• The research-policy gap
• Ways to bridge the gap
• Strategic planning for communication
• Some communication tips
The Research-Policy Gap
• Researchers and policymakers have different roles and spheres of influence
Researchers Policymakers
• Barriers to using research originate from both sides
Barriers - on the research side:
• Research topics don’t address policy needs
• Study findings often not definitive
• Policy implications not drawn out
• Not presented in concise fashion
• Lack of funds or staff for dissemination
Barriers - on the policy side:
• Policymakers have short time horizons and need quick results
• Are too busy to read studies
• Face competing priorities, including concerns about costs, political risks, and opposition
• Understand the policy process and information needs
• Involve policymakers early on in research process
• Interpret and distill findings so they are relevant and usable for policy
Ways to bridge the gap
Bridging the Gap
ResearchersResearchers PolicymakersPolicymakers
Policy communicationsPolicy communications
Policy communication requires:
• Strategic Planning
• Multiple Channels
• Continuous Process
Research-to-Policy: One Model
Strategic Planning for Communication - Steps
Sender
Objectives
Audiences
Messages
Formats/Channels
Pretest
Evaluation
Audience Research
Mobilize a Team
• Researchers
• Program/policy staff
• Communication specialist
• Editor
• Production staff
To plan effectively...
• Be specific about your objectives
• Think in terms of multiple products
• Tailor each to audience needs
• Pretest for best results
• Timing - hook to important events
Use multiple channels & formats
• Reports and publications
• Data sheets• Print or electronic
announcements• Press releases• Press conferences
• Conferences and seminars
• High-level policy presentations
• Policy memos and fact sheets
• Informal briefings
Tips for Developing Messages
• Present two to three points maximum
• Tailor the message to fit the audience
• Deliver through a credible source
• Avoid technical jargon
• Include actions the audience should take
Print materials should be...
• attractive
• clear and jargon-free
• short - 20 pages is good
• have a one-page summary
• have simple tables and graphs
• contain implications or recommendations
Cultivate the media
• Develop networks of journalists
• Nurture relationships
• Send information and data regularly
• Incorporate story element or “news hook”
To sum up:• Communicating research is a full-time
occupation
• Know your audiences and their needs
• Present a concise message
• Maintain a continuous flow of information