Communicating Research to Policymakers

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Communicating Research to Policymakers

• "The road to inaction is paved with research
  reports"

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• The research-policy gap
• Ways to bridge the gap
• Strategic planning for communication
• Some communication tips

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The Research-Policy Gap

• Researchers and policymakers have different roles
  and spheres of influence
• Researchers Policymakers
• Barriers to using research originate from both
  sides

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Barriers - on the research side

• Research topics dont 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

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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

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Ways to bridge the gap

• 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

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Bridging the Gap
Policy communications
Researchers
Policymakers
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Policy communication requires

• Strategic Planning
• Multiple Channels
• Continuous Process

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Research-to-Policy One Model
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Strategic Planning for Communication - Steps
Sender
Objectives
Audience Research
Audiences
Messages
Formats/Channels
Pretest
Evaluation
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Mobilize a Team

• Researchers
• Program/policy staff
• Communication specialist
• Editor
• Production staff

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Cultivate the media

• Develop networks of journalists
• Nurture relationships
• Send information and data regularly
• Incorporate story element or news hook

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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