Observation to Impact – A New Guide for Research Communication
Charles Dickens (Canva’s Magic Media version of him above!) turned acute social observation into stories that changed Victorian society. With characters like Oliver Twist and Little Dorrit, he made the invisible visible – transforming statistical realities about workhouses and debtors’ prisons into narratives that demanded social action. His achievement wasn’t only literary; his words led directly to reforms in education, criminal justice, and social welfare.
Today’s researchers share this fundamental challenge: ensuring valuable work creates meaningful change in the world. Like Dickens, who balanced his role as a journalist and storyteller, researchers must balance rigorous investigation and clear communication of their work.
Having worked alongside research institutions for over a decade, we’ve observed how the most significant research can sometimes struggle to find its audience. In an age where information flows constantly, and attention is scattered, even crucial findings can get lost in the noise. This understanding has led us to create the Research to Impact Playbook.
STRAIGHT FORWARD ACTIONABLE STEPS
The playbook outlines seven stages that connect research with real-world impact. Just as Dickens used serialised stories to build public awareness of social issues, researchers today need varied approaches to share their work effectively.
Each stage provides straightforward, actionable steps. The audience understanding stage helps identify key stakeholders, while later sections outline ways to build productive relationships with policymakers, journalists, and others who can help research make a difference.
The playbook recognises that impact measurement begins at project inception, not conclusion. It suggests ways to gather evidence throughout your project, helping demonstrate your work’s relevance in ways that matter to funders and stakeholders.
Influencing change
This isn’t about changing research but strengthening its natural capacity to influence change. By combining established communication principles with current tools and channels,?the playbook?helps connect valuable work with visible impact. It’s aimed at anyone wanting to make a difference with their work, whether by shaping?policy, building public understanding, or changing society.
Your work has the potential to change the world. Let’s make sure the world knows about it.?