IDS has pioneered approaches to linking up the supply of inclusive research with the demand for evidence from governments, donors, international development agencies, and civil society. It has also helped shape the concept of the politics of knowledge and current understandings of the relationship between evidence, policy and practice being social, political and interactive.
We have significant experience of mobilising knowledge in response to urgent humanitarian crises, and also provide tailored development knowledge services to governments and donor agencies as well as centres of excellence for knowledge sharing and engagement. Our research staff and knowledge specialists bring particular experience and expertise in the following areas – Evidence into use –research design that integrates knowledge exchange and policy engagement mechanisms from the start; Research communications – high quality accessible products designed for maximum engagement; Digitally-enabled knowledge exchange – making evidence more available and accessible with the thoughtful use of technology; Monitoring, evaluation and learning – facilitated learning around research impact and the development of theories of change and Capacity building and mutual learning – through programmes and projects and short courses for institutions and individuals working at the interface between research evidence and policy and practice.
