REF impact case study review and training
Advisory service
Universities across the UK are identifying research that could become sufficiently significant and far-reaching to be submitted as a future REF impact case study. To support the development of these case studies, we offer detailed written feedback on draft case studies and one-to-one sessions with researchers to:
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Provide feedback on the significance and reach of claimed impacts and their attribution to eligible underpinning research, suggesting priorities and wording to increase the likelihood of reaching a 4* score
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Identify new pathways to impact, discuss how to prioritise different impact opportunities when time or resources are limited, and identify ways of increasing the effectiveness, efficiency or reach of impact-generating activities
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Make sure there is a credible plan for the underpinning research for the impact case study
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Develop or refine a strong monitoring and evaluation plan, ensuring relevant data is being collected and managed early in the impact generation process, so there is sufficient evidence to corroborate claims in an impact case study
Researchers may bring team members, professional services staff, and colleagues who want to learn from the process to join as observers.
All feedback is evidence-based, drawing on research analysing published REF impact case studies by Reed and Jensen, by Reichard, Reed and others, and experience across the sector reviewing REF impact case studies.
Packages to support your REF impact case study development
Our advisory services are designed to meet your unique needs, offering flexibility through a modular approach. You can choose from the following packages, combining feedback with training to ensure your team is fully equipped to develop high-quality REF impact case studies.
1. Detailed written feedback
Ideal for those seeking expert guidance to boost their draft’s potential
Price: £285
Receive comprehensive, evidence-based written feedback to refine your impact case study. This includes:
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Brief paragraph summarising feedback
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Potential score the case study would get in its current state
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A detailed report highlighting areas for improvement and opportunities for strengthening your case
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Annotated comments directly on your draft to pinpoint specific changes.
Additionally, this package includes, at no extra cost:
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A PDF copy of Prof. Mark Reed's Research Impact Handbook (2nd ed.)
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6-month subscriptions to Methods for Change self-paced courses:
2. Written feedback + One-to-one virtual session
Perfect for researchers who want deeper engagement and expert support to fine-tune their approach
Price: £475
Everything in Package 1, plus:
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A personalised half-hour live virtual session with Prof. Reed or Prof. Jensen to walk through the feedback
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Opportunity to clarify questions and get tailored advice on refining their case study via email
3. Basic training (3-hour virtual session)
This training ensures your team understands the essentials of REF impact case study development
Price: £2,290
A foundational session designed to:
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Provide an overview of the REF framework
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Highlight key indicators of success for impact case studies
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Offer practical guidance on structuring your submission
4. Advanced training (3-hour virtual session)
Recommended for teams looking to elevate their case studies to meet the highest REF standards
Price: £2,290
Building on the Basic Training*, this session dives deeper into:
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Developing robust evaluation and evidence strategies
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Crafting a strong theory of change
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Exploring different impact categories and enhancing the quality, reach, and significance of your impacts
*You can combine both trainings for a comprehensive development experience
Discuss your training needs with a Fast Track Impact expert.