This 16-slide presentation by Sir Peter Gluckman, the chair for the International Network of Government Science Advice (INGSA)  is all about successfully using evidence to influence policy. 

The nature of policymaking means that the perceptions of complexity, risk, cost and benefit will vary between stakeholders. You have to convince them why your policy issue is a priority, what they will gain from addressing, and what trade-offs they may have to make.

The first lesson in policy brokerage is all about understanding the policy process. Policy reports should always be targeted at someone, bearing in mind the key players of interest. Based on this understanding, you can then decide on the most suitable type of output – for example, a comprehensive report or a policy brief.

The second lesson is to define the problem. This means aligning your intent with that of the policymaker’s, and ensuring that it is reflected in the report. 

Lesson three is about timing. Policymakers have limited bandwidth, and unexpected externalities can shift their attention to other priorities very quickly. 

Lesson four is to understand the stakeholders. This means mapping their cognitive biases (including your own), and recognising that they will all have different perceptions of risk, precaution, cost and benefit.

The fifth lesson is to provide practical solutions. Policymakers are unlikely to address a problem unless there is a solution for it. Additionally, solutions should be realistic, affordable and politically acceptable.

Lesson six is to remember who your target audience is. Reports should be written for the benefit of the audience. Think about the appropriateness of the style, narrative and clarity. Avoiding jargon and including graphics is also key.

Lesson seven is to be inclusive of scientific disciplines. This is because most policymakers need to look at issues from more than one angle. Especially, consider the values-based and political lenses.

The eighth lesson is to acknowledge uncertainties. Remember policymakers are used to dealing with uncertainty, and that admitting to evidence gaps does not undermine your research.

Lesson nine is to prepare the audience. Keep the stakeholders connected and informed of the direction of any report or project. Additionally, make sure your intentions are still aligned.

The final lesson is that writing a report is not ‘impact’. Even once a report has been submitted, you need to ensure that the key audience and stakeholders understand, and figure out if there is any need for further action or evaluation.

This article is part of our initiative, R2A Impact Practitioners. To find out more, please click here.