Transcript The Research

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
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:
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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
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
Bridging the Gap
Policy communications
Researchers
Policymakers
Policy communication requires:
• Strategic Planning
• Multiple Channels
• Continuous Process
Research-to-Policy: One Model
Strategic Planning for
Communication - Steps
Sender
Objectives
Audience Research
Audiences
Messages
Formats/Channels
Pretest
Evaluation
Mobilize a Team
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Researchers
Program/policy staff
Communication specialist
Editor
Production staff
To plan effectively...
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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...
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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