Before choosing your approach to working with policy, it is necessary to ask what policy is, who the policy professionals are and how we can claim that any of what happens as a result of our engagement is “impact”. Broadly speaking, a policy is any course of action that is proposed or adopted by an organisation in pursuit of a goal. It can take the form of policy statements, legislation, or public services.

 

Policymaking is a complex process involving a wide range of individuals and entities beyond just politicians and civil servants. It includes government agencies, quasi-governmental bodies, third-sector organisations, think tanks, lobbyists, consultants, and academic researchers. These groups contribute to the development and shaping of policy through dynamic networks that change as issues rise and fall on the political agenda.

 

Understanding policy impact is crucial for researchers aiming to influence policy decisions. Policy impact refers to the tangible outcomes of research that affect policy, leading to measurable benefits or changes. It is essential to differentiate between impact and engagement. Engagement involves activities like policy briefings or committee presentations, which alone do not constitute impact. Achieving policy impact requires persistence and adaptability, continuously aligning research insights with policy needs to ensure they drive positive change​. In the video below, Professor Mark Reed dives deeper into what is policy impact.