#whatisit?
In the world of research, policymaking, and programme development, "evidence utilisation" is a term often heard but not always fully understood.
Evidence utilisation is a broad field, and it encompasses various phrases that refer to similar concepts. For instance:
- Research Translation and Knowledge Translation: Terms that emphasise converting research findings into practical applications.
- Implementation Science: Studies that promote the systematic investigation of the implementation process and uptake of research findings.
- Dissemination: Sharing research findings widely to facilitate evidence-based decisions.
- Research Uptake and Knowledge Mobilisation: Terms that highlight the process of making research findings accessible and usable.
Each of these terms may have a slightly different emphasis, but all contribute to the overarching goal of generating or using evidence to make informed decisions that improve programmes, policies, or practices. When we talk about evidence utilisation, we’re referring to a structured approach to taking scientific knowledge and translating it into real-world applications that drive positive changes.
#What do we mean by evidence?
The evidence utilisation can help us take the latest scientific knowledge and apply it to drive positive change. But what is evidence? Is it synonymous with data?
Let's explore the foundational concepts that underpin this process.
Evidence can be thought of as scientifically grounded knowledge that provides valuable insights into a programme, policy, or practice.
- It can encompasses both quantitative data (like statistics and measurable outcomes) and qualitative information (such as insights from case studies or expert opinions).
- It can be generated from various research activities, including from:
o Primary Research Studies (like, randomised controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, and programme evaluations that investigate specific questions or hypotheses),
o Document reviews and secondary analysis (examining existing documents or datasets to extract relevant insights),
o Reviews (synthesising evidence from multiple sources/studies to draw generalisable conclusions),
o Case Studies (capturing unique or innovative cases for broader learning)
o Expert Opinions (insights from individuals with significant expertise in a particular field).
A critical point is the distinction between data and evidence. Whereas data is useful and helps provide useful information, reveal trends, it is often limited to a particular topic, population, or study. Evidence goes further by making meaning across datasets and across studies, to generate consensus on what is known (and what is not) and adding practical guidance on how to tackle an identified issue.
An example of the power of combining data and evidence can be seen in the HIV programme cascade framework, which connects data across various stages of a process. This comprehensive view offers policymakers insights into gaps or areas for improvement within a programme, allowing for more informed decision-making.
Each of these sources provides a different type of evidence, and together they can paint a comprehensive picture of the topic at hand.
#What Does "Utilisation" Entail?
Utilisation is more than just using evidence; it’s a planned, careful process that involves various stakeholders. The ultimate goal of evidence utilisation is to implement change — whether in a program, policy, or practice. Evidence is used as a foundation for making informed decisions that lead to improvements. Here’s what makes evidence utilisation unique:
1. Intentional Process: The utilisation of evidence involves a planned, deliberate approach, where decision-makers or practitioners intentionally seek out the best available evidence to inform their actions.
2. Thoughtful Use of Evidence: The process emphasises a careful, balanced approach, ensuring that the most relevant and credible evidence is selected to address the issue at hand.
4. Engagement of Multiple Stakeholders: Successful utilisation requires collaboration among various actors, including researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and the community. This collective effort helps ensure that the evidence is applied in a way that meets the needs of all involved.
5. Extended Communication Process: Utilising evidence is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process of sharing, discussing, and refining knowledge. Effective communication is essential, as it helps bridge gaps between the research and those implementing it.
This structured approach to understanding, interpreting, and applying scientific knowledge that engages diverse stakeholders and uses a range of communication tools can support decision-makers in transforming research findings into actionable insights.
