The following checklist can help you in effectively sharing your findings, recommendations and insights with your target policy audience:
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Identify the most effective communication channels preferred by your policy audience.
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Think about the recommendations you’ll make and what your policy audience can realistically do with the information and advice you provide.
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Use language that your policy audience understands and present the information in a format they prefer, such as speaking instead of writing, or using a slide deck instead of a long-form report. Any technical language or jargon should be adapted to your audience’s likely level of understanding, erring on the side of caution when using specialist terminology.
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Be prepared to present findings that might surprise your audience, making sure your communication is clear, considerate, and balanced.
The potential range of policy-engagement practices can be very broad. The document below outlines a broad spectrum of policy-engagement practices, complete with practical examples to guide your approach.
Reference: Breckon, J.,Hasenfuss, J. & Jowett, L. (2024). Growing a University policy engagement function. Towards better models, methods, and measures of success. CAPE.
This report by Dr Caroline Wood, based on empirical research she undertook provides important insights into how policymakers find and consume information that informs their decision-making. By embracing these approaches, you can ensure that your work reaches the right hands at the right time, driving informed decision-making.