Institute of Development Studies

Projects

We have grouped the major streams we are working on under three themes:

• Building understanding of the contribution of knowledge intermediaries to the research to policy  ecosystem
• Strengthening the ability of knowledge intermediaries to operate effectively
• Supporting collaboration between knowledge intermediaries

Currently, we are working particularly closely with IDS Knowledge Services around the Mobilising Knowledge for Development (MK4D) work. MK4D aims "increase the contribution of research knowledge to poverty reduction" with its current phase focused on strengthening the emerging global network of information intermediaries to increase the sharing and effective use of research knowledge.

The diagram below is a snap-shot from country studies we are in the process of conducting, generating data on decision-makers information-seeking behaviours. This study is funded by MK4D 

ILT plays a support role in innovation and new product development through marketing, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and learning. We seek to walk the fine line between delivering technical support to the programme with its associated accountability to the donors, and undertaking core research that undergirds the programme.

We are also working on enhancing IDS-wide monitoring and evaluation of its effectiveness and influence in the Research to Polic Praxis. ILT has led on the conceptualising of strategic dashboard indicators and how to operationalise these, to support the IDS Strategic Management Group and Board to monitor the success of the new strategy.  

Building understanding of the contribution of knowledge intermediaries to the RPP ecosystem

• Tracking the effectiveness of difference campaigns for influencing policy and practice - Supporting IRC with a re-appraisal of how development assistance to the rural water supply sector is designed and planned by both governments and developing partners. (Ongoing)
• Research to policy praxis - Exploring the role of ICTs for policymakers in the changing information ecosystem - studies on six country contexts (Ongoing)

Strengthening the ability of knowledge intermediaries to operate effectively

• Support the operationalisation of outcome focused approaches - ILT are seeking to embed an outcome orientation to the planning, monitoring and evaluation processes throughout the current phase of the Mobilising Knowledge for Development (MK4D) programme. (Ongoing)
• Mentoring and capacity building around knowledge networks - ILT providing mentoring and capacity support to Senegal-based organisation, ENDA, to take over hosting the AfricaAdapt network from IDS. (Ongoing)

Supporting collaboration between knowledge intermediaries

• Supporting outcome orientated thinking and embedded learning/continuous improvement - ILT is working to support and embed reflective learning practices for staff involved in the MK4D programme, including "ORID" interviews and Learning Labs. (Ongoing)