Getting research used

For research to achieve its potential in enhancing policy and resulting in improvements to peoples’ lives, it needs to be used. Policy decisions can be influenced by a body of evidence or a piece of useful information presented at just the right time. In the hands of communities, research evidence can provide an important platform on which to demand better quality and access to basic services such as health and education.

Research use is a complex process that goes beyond the publication and dissemination of results. AusAID uses a number of strategies to promote the use of research including:

investing in research driven by users. Research that is linked to end-user needs is more likely to have influence and impact
supporting researchers to communicate their findings and recommendations effectively. Targeted communication between researchers and policy makers or practitioner groups plays an important role in getting research used
making research available and accessible to those that should use it. AusAID is committed to making the research that it funds publicly available and accessible to all.

Last reviewed: 13 October, 2011