Think Tanks Boost Policy Impact by Aligning Research with Needs
Think tanks play a vital role in shaping policy, with their work being used daily by policymakers. To maximise their impact, think tankers should align their research with policy needs, engage with diverse stakeholders, and understand real-life political processes.
Policymakers' key requirements for think tanks include strategic foresight aligned with policy priorities, clear articulation of the role of foresight, active stakeholder engagement, and long-term perspective integration. Think tank experts can make their expertise accessible by closely aligning research with policy needs, demonstrating practical cases, maintaining continuous monitoring, and fostering multi-level collaboration.
Think tanks provide crucial policymaking work, such as in-depth analysis and idea generation. A notable example is Sophia Besch and Sarah Brockmeier's paper 'Waking the sleeping giant: What's next for German security policy?'. To increase their impact, think tanks should publish at the right time and use suitable meeting formats like weekly morning briefings or brown bag lunches. Policymakers appreciate think tanks that understand political pressures and provide concrete, short, and forward-looking policy recommendations.
Think tanks can influence policy most effectively 12 months before a federal election. Policymakers value think tank products that present innovative scenarios or ideas. By understanding and meeting these requirements, think tanks can significantly enhance their role in shaping policy.
Read also:
- AI Validators: Unsung Heroes Ensuring Trust and Compliance
- GEW Demands Survey and Funding for Hessian Schools' Renovation
- India's Sports Revolution: Bhubaneswar, Chennai, and Ahmedabad Pioneering Nation's Athletic Makeover
- "Blood tests could potentially enhance the accuracy of malaria diagnoses in research circumstances"
