Policy Research and the Policy Process: Do the twain ever meet?

This paper aims to contribute to the development of methodologies for evaluating the impact of social science on policy choices and outcomes. Since it is almost impossible to trace a precise pathway from specific research effort to policy decisions, evaluation of the impact of social science research institutes should: [1] evaluate the quality and timeliness of research output, the contribution of research to the policy debate, and the potential (rather than actual) impact of the research on policy; [2] evaluate contributions of research to 'enlightenment', and not only to policy change; [3] take into account the diverse ways in which research findings enter and influence the policy process, [4] perform evaluations over time to capture the different ways and different points in time at which research influences policy actors and processes.

Research does not influence policy in a linear sequence. Outputs go into a general pool of information that influences policy-makers; often they use it to help them define the scope of problems and possible responses rather than dictate specific solutions. Information is sometimes better received if produced internally by an internal 'sponsor'. To make an impact researchers have to understand policy-makers' needs and how they make decisions; get the format, style and timing right for the audience; make sure that the research is useful and rigorous; encourage public debate to build up a consensus of opinion for action.