Evaluating Research Impact: The Development of a Research for Impact Tool

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Research Management
• Indigenous Studies

Background:

• Evaluates the development of a Research for Impact Tool amidst fiscal constraints and funding competition.
• Addresses challenges in assessing research impact, especially concerning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues.
• Highlights conceptual and methodological difficulties in research impact evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the development of a Research for Impact Tool.
• To highlight challenges and opportunities in evaluating research impact.
• To serve as a resource for users and stakeholders interested in research impact assessment.

Main Methods:

• Literature reviews.
• Workshops with researchers.
• Reflections by project team members and partners using participatory snowball techniques.

Main Results:

• Research impact assessment is a 'wicked problem' but manageable through a heuristic and collaborative approach.
• The Research for Impact Tool values research based on its ability to create evidence for smarter decision-making.
• Focuses on decision-makers' needs to improve policy, practice, and societal outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The tool's core principle—prioritizing decision-maker information needs—applies beyond Indigenous research to all research settings.
• The tool's development aligns with Australia's Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) policy changes.
• Recommends engaging funding agencies for consistent impact evaluation approaches across stakeholders.