Table 1 Characteristics of existing guidance documents on evidence-based policymaking
Author [Reference] | Year of publication | Title | Target users | Main focus of Guidance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Blanchet et al. [18] | 2018 | Using Research Evidence in the Humanitarian Sector: A practice guide | Policymakers, practitioners | (i). What evidence informed decision-making is, (ii). developing and implementing a new intervention, (iii). creating a theory of change, (iv). different types of research methods, designs and approaches, and how to judge the quality of research. |
Ministry of Health, Malawi [19] | 2016 | Guidelines for Evidence Use in Decision-Making in the Health Sector | Policymakers | (i). Foundation of Public Policy-Making, (ii). theory in public policy-making, (iii). key stages of the public policy-making process and evidence use, (iii). characteristics of good public policy-making, (iv). facilitators and barriers to evidence use in policy-making, |
Wills et al. [20] | 2016 | Guidelines and good practices for evidence-informed policy-making in a government department | Policymakers | (i). Using a broad definition of ‘robust evidence’, (ii). linking evidence needs to policy priorities, (iii). linking an evidence-informed approach with business planning, budgeting and reporting, (iv). ensuring evidence processes are inclusive and participatory |
Breckon et al. [21] | 2016 | Using Research Evidence: A Practice Guide | Decision-makers in government, voluntary organizations | (i). The four elements of evidence-based management (ii). reasons for needing evidence and creating a theory of change, (iii). how to judge the quality of research and where to look for evidence (iv). how to communicate findings |
Ministry of Health, Kenya [22]. | 2015 | Guidelines for evidence use in policy-making | Policymakers | (i). Context of public policy-making, (ii). key stages of the policy-making process and evidence use, (iii). facilitators and barriers to evidence use in policy-making, (iv). health policy development process, accessing evidence for policy-making |
The Council of State Governments [23] | 2008 | State Policy Guide: Using Research in Public Health Policymaking | Policymakers, legislators | (i). Legislators use of research evidence in public health policymaking (ii). understanding public health research: key facts and terms (iii). how researchers measure success of policies and programs? (viii). using research results in policymaking, and drafting public health legislation |